Question

2.2.4 quiz: transfer of thermal energy
a class is performing an experiment to keep an ice cube solid as long as possible.

which students actions could be a source of error in this experiment?

a. angelina waited until the next day to observe the ice cube and record how long it took to melt.

b. jerrie wrapped the ice cube loosely in several layers of cotton and aluminum foil.

c. carey put the ice cube in cold water and recorded the temperature every 2 minutes as the ice cube melted.

d. jody outlined the ice cube to measure it before it started to melt.

Explanation:

To determine the source of error, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Waiting until the next day to observe the ice cube's melting time can introduce errors because environmental conditions (like temperature changes over time) might affect the melting rate, and the exact start - end time of melting may not be accurately tracked.
• Option B: Wrapping the ice cube in cotton (an insulator) and aluminum foil (which can reflect heat) is a valid way to slow down melting and is a proper experimental procedure.
• Option C: Putting the ice cube in cold water and recording temperature every 2 minutes is a reasonable way to study the melting process, as cold water can slow down melting and regular temperature recording is a good experimental practice.
• Option D: Outlining the ice cube before it starts to melt is a valid way to measure its initial size, which is a proper step in the experiment.

Answer:

A. Angelina waited until the next day to observe the ice cube and record how long it took to melt.