Four identical metal cans are filled with equal volumes of hot water at 80 ∘C80\,^\circ\text{C}80∘C. Each can has a different outer surface finish:
Which can will cool down the most rapidly?
Can 1 (dull black)
Can 2 (dull white)
Can 3 (shiny black)
Can 4 (shiny silver)
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.