Question

a heated metal object whose temperature is 120°c is dropped into a tub of water whose temperature is 10°c. which of the following will most likely occur? a the water and metal will adjust to the same temperature above 120°c. b the water and metal will adjust to different temperatures below 10°c. c the water and metal will adjust to the same temperature between 10°c and 120°c. d the water will remain the same temperature, and the metal will cool to 10°c.

Explanation:

When a hot metal object is placed in cooler water, heat transfer occurs from the metal to the water. According to the principle of conservation of energy and the concept of thermal equilibrium, the two - substances will reach the same temperature over time. The final temperature will be between the initial temperature of the water (10°C) and the initial temperature of the metal (120°C) as heat is transferred from the metal to warm up the water and the metal cools down in the process.

Answer:

C. The water and metal will adjust to the same temperature between 10°C and 120°C.