A student uses the apparatus in Fig. 5.1 to investigate how well different surfaces absorb infrared radiation. The setup includes two metal containers: one has a dull black surface and the other has a shiny white surface. Before any heating, the air inside both metal containers is at the same temperature. The Bunsen burner flame is kept the same distance from each metal container. The flame from the Bunsen burner gives out infrared radiation and heats the metal containers for three minutes.
(a)[2]
Explain how the temperatures of the air inside the two metal containers differ after heating for three minutes.
(b)[4]
Describe how the teacher may use the rods to compare the thermal conductivity of the five materials. A labelled diagram may be included in your answer.
Worked solution & mark scheme
This 6-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: “The air in the black container becomes hotter, or warms up the fastest” …