The temperature of water in the Gulf of Mexico can rise by about 20°F with the onset of the summer. However, the most significant temperature rise is confined to the top 2-3 meters of water. Assuming that it takes 45 days for the temperature to increase by 20°F, what is the average energy absorbed per day by water in a volume measuring 1 m × 1 m × 2.5 m?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The volume of water is 1 m × 1 m × 2.5 m = 2.5 m³
The mass of water is ρV = 1000 kg/m³ × 2.5 m³ = 2500 kg
The specific heat capacity of water is c = 4186 J/kg°C
The temperature rise in 45 days is ΔT = 20°F = 11.1°C
The energy absorbed by water is Q = mcΔT = 2500 kg × 4186 J/kg°C × 11.1°C = 1.16 × 10¹⁹ J
The average energy absorbed per day is Q/45 days = 2.58 × 10¹⁶ J/day, which is closest to option B.

The Temperature of Water in the Gulf of Mexico Can