Question 4
Heat TransferTwo closed vessels contain equal volumes of boiling water and are identical except that one is blackened on the outside while the other is polished. Which of the following is correct?
- A.The polished vessel will cool faster because a polished surface is a good radiator
- B.The polished vessel will cool faster because it will absorb less heat from the room
- C.The black vessel will cool faster because it is a better conductor of heat
- D.The polished vessel will cool faster because it reflects heat better
- E.The black vessel will cool faster because a black surface radiates heat faster than a polished one.
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: E (The black vessel will cool faster because a black surface radiates heat faster than a polished one.)
Explanation
Dull black surfaces are good emitters of radiant heat, while polished surfaces are poor emitters. So the blackened vessel loses heat faster.