Question

select the correct answer.
salt is dissolved in a flask of tap water. distilling the mixture causes the salt to separate from the water. which type of energy is required to begin the distilling process?
a. chemical energy
b. electrical energy
c. mechanical energy (motion)
d. thermal energy

Explanation:

Distillation is a process that involves heating a liquid to its boiling point. Thermal energy is the energy associated with heat. In distillation of a salt - water mixture, thermal energy is used to heat the water so that it evaporates (boils). Chemical energy is related to chemical reactions (no chemical reaction is taking place here just a physical separation). Electrical energy would be used if we were using an electric heater, but the fundamental energy type required for the heating (which is the start of distillation) is thermal. Mechanical energy (motion) is not relevant as the key is heating.

Answer:

D. thermal energy