It is a well-known fact that water has a higher specific heat than iron.Now,consider equal masses of water and iron that are initially in thermal equilibrium.The same amount of heat,30 calories,is added to each one.Which statement is true?
A) They remain in thermal equilibrium.
B) They are no longer in thermal equilibrium; the iron is warmer.
C) They are no longer in thermal equilibrium; the water is warmer.
D) It is impossible to say without knowing the exact mass involved.
E) It is impossible to say without knowing the exact specific heats.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since water has a higher specific heat than iron, it requires more heat to change its temperature by the same amount. Therefore, when the same amount of heat is added to both, the iron, having a lower specific heat, will warm up more than the water, breaking the thermal equilibrium and making the iron warmer.

It Is a Well-Known Fact That Water Has a Higher