Solving the Mystery of the Sealed Room's Temperature

In summary, the conversation revolves around the question of what happens to the temperature in a sealed room with a powered-on fridge, with one colleague suggesting that the temperature will rise due to the energy being put into the system. Another colleague adds that while the fridge is running, the temperature in front of the door may fall due to the cooling effect, while the temperature behind the fridge may rise. It is also mentioned that the fridge will consume all the energy eventually, resulting in a higher temperature. The question is then raised about the temperature continuing to rise if the fridge is constantly running, to which the response is yes, depending on the initial amount of energy in the system. The conversation ends with a playful pun.
  • #1
just_a_quicky
4
0
A colleague has just posed this question and I need some help.

There is a sealed room in space that has no external infulences.

Inside the room is a fridge. The fridge is powered on and its door is open.

The question is, what happens to the temperature of the room ?
 
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  • #2
Seems very much like a homework problem.

What do you think will happen?
 
  • #3
Higher.
Because the conservation of the energy.
If you use the energy of the electricity, then the energy must convert into other forms.
 
  • #4
Not homework - just something to talk about at work.

I think the obvious answer is that the temperature will rise - power is being put into a sealed system - therefore the effect is that the energy being put in will cause heat to be generated.

But I am curious about whether the cooling aspect of the fridge would have any effect.
 
  • #5
I think...
..while the fridge is running, the temperature in front of the door is really falling (your cooling effect) and the temperature behind the fridge is rising, but more than it is falling in front of the door...

after some time the fridge will consume all the energy added...and temperature will balance...and of course the result is higher temperature (due to 2nd Thermodynamic law).
 
  • #6
What happens next then if the fridge is constantly running, surely the temperature just keeps rising - more energy in = more heat ?
 
  • #7
yes. exactly.
and the time the fridge is running depends on amount of energy for the fridge in the system at the beggining. (sealed system).
 
  • #8
Cool, thanks for your help.
 
  • #9
just_a_quicky said:
Cool, thanks for your help.

Was that a pun?

:)

Zz.
 

1. How does the temperature inside a sealed room change over time?

The temperature inside a sealed room can change over time due to a variety of factors. These can include the outside temperature, the materials used to construct the room, and any heat sources or ventilation systems that may be present.

2. Why is it important to solve the mystery of the sealed room's temperature?

Solving the mystery of the sealed room's temperature can provide valuable insights into heat transfer and energy efficiency. It can also help us understand the impact of human activities on the environment and inform strategies for reducing energy consumption.

3. How can we measure the temperature inside a sealed room?

The temperature inside a sealed room can be measured using a thermometer or a temperature sensor. These devices can be placed in different locations within the room to get a more accurate reading of the temperature distribution.

4. What are some potential causes for a sudden change in temperature inside a sealed room?

A sudden change in temperature inside a sealed room can be caused by various factors, such as a malfunctioning ventilation system, a sudden change in outside temperature, or the introduction of a new heat source (e.g. turning on a heater or opening a window).

5. How can we control the temperature inside a sealed room?

The temperature inside a sealed room can be controlled through various methods, including adjusting the thermostat, using insulation to regulate heat transfer, and implementing energy-efficient building design. Regular monitoring and maintenance of ventilation systems can also help regulate temperature.

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