Chapter 22, Problem 33A

In Montana, the state highway department spreads coal dust on top of snow. When the sun comes out, the snow rapidly melts. Why?

To determine

To explain: The reason due to which spreading coal dust on top of snow makes it melt rapidly when the sun comes out.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Black colors are poor reflectors and hence good absorbers of heat and light.

Coal dust is black in color. Hence, it is a good absorber of radiant energy. When the sun comes out, coal dust absorbs the radiant energy from the sunlight. This causes an increase in temperature which make the snow melt.

Conclusion:

The snow melts rapidly because spreading coal dust on top of it increases its temperature.