Physics 0625 · IGCSE · Transfer of thermal energy

Transfer of thermal energy — practice question

A beaker holds some water at room temperature. A student inserts a mercury-in-glass thermometer into the water so that the bulb sits just below the water surface. Fig. 4.1 shows the setup.
(a)[3]

Explain, in terms of water molecules, why the temperature of the water at the surface starts to fall.

(b)[3]

State the name of the thermal transfer method responsible for this and explain what is occurring in the water.

(c(i))[2]

State the meanings of range and sensitivity.

(c(ii))[1]

State and explain how using a smaller bulb that contains less mercury affects the thermometer’s range.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 9-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: The more energetic molecules leave the surface / evaporate

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