Chapter 17, Problem 103A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Freezing of water on a citrus tree can cause the temperature of the tree to increase needs to be explained.

Concept Introduction: Energy can be changed from one form to another but neither be created nor be destroyed is a Law of Conservation of Energy.

Answer to Problem 103A

In terms of Law of Conservation of Energy, the Energy of the Universe remains unchanged.

Explanation of Solution

Given Information: Freezing of water on a citrus tree can cause the temperature of the tree to increase.

The citrus tree's branches, leaves, and fruits are susceptible to serious damage when the temperature drops below 0°C. When ice crystals form in plant cells, water is no longer available to the plant tissues, and juice vesicles inside the fruit burst. The fruit, leaves, and branches are directly covered in frozen water. As the water freezes, heat is released, preventing the plant cells from reaching freezing temperatures as freezing is an exothermic process.

Conclusion

In terms of Law of Conservation of Energy, the Energy of the Universe remains unchanged.