Water actually contracts when it is warmed near its freezing point. In this range, is water's heat capacity at constant volume (A) greater than, (B) less than, or (C) equal to its heat capacity at constant pressure?
A) greater than
B) less than
C) equal to

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Water's heat capacity at constant volume is greater than its heat capacity at constant pressure in the range near its freezing point. This is because when water is warmed near its freezing point, it contracts, which is an anomalous behavior. Normally, substances expand when heated. The work done by or on the system during expansion or contraction at constant pressure is not present in a constant volume process, leading to differences in heat capacities.

Water Actually Contracts When It Is Warmed near Its Freezing