Chapter 14, Problem 15Q

To determine

Why it’s important for a vent to be there where there is hot air furnace and what will happen if the vent is blocked by a bookcase.

Answer to Problem 15Q

Solution:

For complete circulation of air.

Explanation of Solution

A hot-air furnace heats primarily by air convection. Convection is the circular motion that happens when warmer airrises, while the cooler air drops down.A return path for cold air is necessary for the convective currents to be able to completely circulate. If the flow of air is blocked, then the heating process will be interrupted.

If the vent is blocked by a bookcase, heating will be less efficientand less uniform.