Physics 5054 · O Level · Thermal properties and temperature

Thermal properties and temperature — practice question

One specific cooking oil remains liquid when it is at room temperature.
(a(i))[1]

Explain, in terms of molecules, why the oil has a much greater density than a gas.

(a(ii))[1]

Explain, in terms of molecules, why the oil is not compressible.

(b(i))[2]

The oil’s density is $0.85\,\text{g cm}^{-3}$. Calculate the volume of oil in the pan when the mass is $680\,\text{g}$.

(b(ii)-1)[3]

Explain, in terms of molecules or free electrons, how thermal energy is conducted across the metal base of the pan.

(b(ii)-2)[3]

Explain how thermal energy is distributed through all the oil in the pan.

(b(ii)-3)[1]

Suggest and explain a suitable material to use for the pan handle.

(c(i))[1]

State what is meant by the boiling point.

(c(ii))[2]

Calculate the thermal energy required to raise the temperature of $680\,\text{g}$ of oil from $20^\circ\text{C}$ to its boiling point, $260^\circ\text{C}$. The oil has a specific heat capacity of $2.0\,\text{J g}^{-1}\,^\circ\text{C}^{-1}$.

(c(iii))[1]

Suggest one reason why the hotplate’s energy output while heating the oil is greater than the value you calculated in (c)(ii).

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 15-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Molecules are close together / the gaps are small

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