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2.3 Transfer of thermal energy

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Question 3

A student investigates how the surface color of a container affects the portion of heat lost through radiation.

Plan an experiment which will enable her to investigate how changing the color of the outer surface of a container affects the rate of cooling of hot water inside.

The apparatus available includes:

  • several identical metal cans, each with the outer surface painted a different color
  • a supply of hot water
  • lids to fit the cans
  • a measuring cylinder.

In your plan:

  • list any additional apparatus needed
  • explain briefly how to do the experiment, including the measurements to take so that the rate of cooling can be determined
  • state the key variables to keep constant
  • draw a table, or tables, with column headings, to show how to display the readings (you are not required to enter any readings in the table)
  • explain how to use the readings to reach a conclusion.

You may draw a diagram if it helps to explain your plan.

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Markscheme

2.3 Transfer of thermal energy Questions

  1. IGCSE
  2. /Physics
  3. /2.3 Transfer of thermal energy

301 exam-style questions on CIE IGCSE Physics 2.3 Transfer of thermal energy, covering 2.3.1a Thermal conductors and thermal insulators, 2.3.1b Explaining thermal conduction, 2.3.2 Convection, 2.3.3a Thermal radiation, 2.3.3b Surface colour and texture, 2.3.3c Rate of emission and absorption of radiation, and 2.3.4 Consequences of thermal energy transfer. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.

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