How Is the Specific Latent Heat of Fusion for Ice Calculated?

In summary, the specific latent heat of fusion of ice can be determined by dividing the product of the time (in seconds) and energy supplied (in watts) by the mass of the sample (in kilograms). The resulting unit will be joules per kilogram.
  • #1
swede5670
78
0

Homework Statement


Determine the specific latent heat of fusion of ice given the amount of time it takes the ice to melt (150 seconds). Energy is supplied to the ice at 530 W. The sample is .25 kg.


Homework Equations


Q= ml


The Attempt at a Solution


(Time * 530W) = .25kg * L
150 seconds * 530W = .25kg * L
(150 * 530)/.25 = 318,000
This seems huge, can anyone help me determine what the units are?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
swede5670 said:

Homework Statement


Determine the specific latent heat of fusion of ice given the amount of time it takes the ice to melt (150 seconds). Energy is supplied to the ice at 530 W. The sample is .25 kg.


Homework Equations


Q= ml


The Attempt at a Solution


(Time * 530W) = .25kg * L
150 seconds * 530W = .25kg * L
(150 * 530)/.25 = 318,000
This seems huge, can anyone help me determine what the units are?

What are the units of the quantities you calculated with?

Watts = Joules/sec

So watts * sec = Joules

You used mass as kg, so what you calculated is ...

Latency = Joules/kg
 
  • #3


The units for latent heat of fusion are joules per kilogram (J/kg). In this case, the calculated value of 318,000 would represent the amount of energy required to melt 0.25 kg of ice. This value may seem large, but it is in line with the high latent heat of fusion for ice, which is approximately 334,000 J/kg. This high value is due to the strong hydrogen bonds between water molecules in ice, which require a significant amount of energy to break in order for the ice to melt.
 

FAQ: How Is the Specific Latent Heat of Fusion for Ice Calculated?

1. What is the concept of "Latent Heat of Fusion"?

The Latent Heat of Fusion is the amount of energy required to change a substance from a solid state to a liquid state at its melting point. It is a specific type of latent heat, which refers to the energy absorbed or released during a phase change without a change in temperature.

2. How is the Latent Heat of Fusion measured for ice?

The Latent Heat of Fusion for ice is commonly measured in joules (J) or calories (cal) per gram (g). It is determined by dividing the amount of energy absorbed or released during the phase change by the mass of the substance.

3. What factors affect the Latent Heat of Fusion for ice?

The Latent Heat of Fusion for ice is primarily affected by the type of substance and the atmospheric pressure. Other factors, such as impurities in the ice or the rate of heating, may also have a small impact on the value.

4. How does the Latent Heat of Fusion for ice affect the Earth's climate?

The Latent Heat of Fusion for ice plays a crucial role in the Earth's climate by regulating the temperature of the planet. When ice melts, it absorbs a significant amount of heat energy from the environment, helping to cool the Earth. Similarly, when ice freezes, it releases heat energy into the environment, helping to warm the Earth.

5. Can the Latent Heat of Fusion for ice be used for practical applications?

Yes, the Latent Heat of Fusion for ice has several practical applications. It is used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems, as well as in the production of frozen foods and ice cream. It is also utilized in the creation of artificial snow and in the storage of food and medical supplies at below-freezing temperatures.

Similar threads

Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
17
Views
4K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
11
Views
4K
Back
Top