A question for all you coffe connoisseurs out there =)

  • Thread starter Thread starter bac2789
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The forum discussion revolves around a physics question posed by a student regarding the energy required to heat an 8oz cup of coffee from room temperature (70°F) to 70°C using sound energy from yelling. The student provides initial parameters, including the volume of coffee and temperature change, and seeks assistance in calculating the mass of the coffee, noting the density of water at 21.1°C as a necessary variable. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding thermodynamics and sound energy transfer in this context.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of thermodynamics principles
  • Knowledge of sound energy and decibel levels
  • Familiarity with density calculations
  • Ability to convert units (e.g., ounces to cubic meters)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the density of water at various temperatures, specifically at 21.1°C
  • Study the principles of energy transfer in thermodynamics
  • Learn about sound energy and its conversion to thermal energy
  • Explore unit conversion techniques for volume and mass
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators in the field of thermodynamics, and anyone interested in the practical applications of sound energy in heating processes.

bac2789
Messages
6
Reaction score
0
I've always chuckled when I look up in my classroom and see the poster my physics teacher owns asking "How long would you have to yell to heat up a cup of coffe?". It would take an impracticle amount of time for a single person, however, with a twist this question could turn into quite the amusing experiment (granted it would take an enormous group of people). I figured you forum helpers must get bored every now and then, so I have a question for you! Yes, this is a spin on things, a pop-quiz from a student for all you teachers out there ;)

My question to you is:

How many people would have to yell for 60 sec to heat up an 8oz cup of coffe from room temperature (70°F) to a toasty 70°C? (Note: The average person yells at about 80 decibles)

Assume a perfect transfer of energy from your yell to the coffee, a perfectly insulated cup that will never let any heat escape, and an unending even stream of energy.

Cant you just feel your tastebuds tingling with excitement!?

Be sure to post your:


1. Givens and Unknowns

Homework Equations



3. Work and solution
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
My class hasn't covered themodynamics, or sound yet, but I don't want everyone thinking I'm secretly trying to get a homework answer! So here's my attempt... I'll be researching as I go so don't hold it against me! I might need some help at various stages in my problem. =)


1) G/U:
V=8oz
Ti=21.1°C
Tf=70°C
Δt=60s
1 Ounce = 0.0000295735296 Cubic Meters




2) Equations:

°C = 5/9 (°F-32)
Density = m/v



3) Work and Solution:

°C= 5/9 (°F-32)
°C= 5/9 (70-32)
°C= 21.1
Ti=21.1°C

(8oz) (0.0000295735296) = 0.0002365882368 m3 = 2.4e-4 m3

Density = m/V
m=Density * V
m=Density * (2.4e-4 m3)

Hmmmm, I'm stuck here. Am I missing data? Cant calculate mass if I don't have the density of water at 21.1°C. Are there ways to calculate the density of water at 21.1°C? Or is this a measured value that I'd have to add to my question?
 
Last edited:
You can safely assume 1 g/mL, even if it is not exact, it is close to reality.

For a very high precision you should check in density tables (but in this case it would be a waste of time).
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
6K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 31 ·
2
Replies
31
Views
7K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
4K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
4K