Identical heat lamps are arranged to shine on two identical containers, one containing water and one methanol (wood alcohol), so that each liquid absorbs the same amount of energy minute by minute. The covalent bonds of methanol molecules are nonpolar, so there are no hydrogen bonds among methanol molecules. Which of the following graphs correctly describes what will happen to the temperature of the water and the methanol?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The graph in choice B correctly shows that water will experience a slower rise in temperature compared to methanol. This is because water has strong hydrogen bonds, which makes it more resistant to changes in temperature. Methanol, on the other hand, does not have hydrogen bonds and can easily be heated up. Therefore, methanol will reach a higher temperature faster than water. Choice A is incorrect because it shows both liquids rising in temperature at the same rate, which is not true. Choice C is incorrect because it shows the opposite trend, with methanol cooling down instead of heating up. Choice D is incorrect because it shows both liquids starting at different temperatures, which is not stated in the question.

Identical Heat Lamps Are Arranged to Shine on Two Identical