Chapter 5, Problem 39R

To determine

To compare: The thermal energy content in 1 liter of water at 50°C or 2 liters water at 50°C.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The thermal energy of a body is equal to the sum of potential energy and kinetic energy of all the particles that make up that body. It depends on various factors.

The thermal energy of a body increases as the temperature supplied to it increases and as a result the average kinetic energy of all the particles that make up that body also increases and the body starts to move. When the body starts moving, its particles become separated and thus its potential energy increases. Now, this thermal energy varies with the mass of the body also. If the mass of a body is double, the thermal energy is also doubled. So thermal energy depends upon the temperature and mass of the body both.

Conclusion:

Hence, 2 liters of water at 50°C has higher thermal energy as compared to 1-liter water at 50°C.