An insulated cooling sphere

In summary, the rate of cooling will change for the solid steel sphere as it is wrapped in insulation, but the surface of the sphere may also warm up slightly after the insulation is applied. This is due to the temperature gradient that may occur from the center of the sphere to its surface. However, overall, the sphere will still be losing energy.
  • #1
JWS
1
0
A solid steel sphere is heated to 150 deg F and allowed to cool in a room at 60 deg F. During cooling, the sphere is wrapped in insulation which is at room temperature before used. Will the surface of the metal sphere warm or will only the rate of cooling change?

Don't laugh, I've seen conflicting answers amongst even pHd physicists.
 
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  • #2
If the sphere is insulated when at an isothermal state (I.E. before it's had a chance to cool at all yet), then only the rate of cooling will change. If the sphere is allowed to cool somewhat, and the sphere has a fairly low thermal conductivity relative to the convective heat transfer at the surface (such that there is a significant temperature gradient from the center of the sphere to the surface), the surface could indeed warm up immediately after insulation, as the slowed rate of cooling would allow the sphere's temperature to equalize somewhat. On the whole, though, the sphere will still be losing energy.
 
  • #3
JWS said:
A solid steel sphere is heated to 150 deg F and allowed to cool in a room at 60 deg F. During cooling, the sphere is wrapped in insulation which is at room temperature before used. Will the surface of the metal sphere warm or will only the rate of cooling change?

Don't laugh, I've seen conflicting answers amongst even pHd physicists.

Welcome to the PF.

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1. What is an insulated cooling sphere?

An insulated cooling sphere is a scientific device used to maintain a constant and controlled temperature for a substance or object placed inside it. It is typically made of insulating materials, such as plastic or foam, and is designed to minimize heat transfer with the external environment.

2. How does an insulated cooling sphere work?

An insulated cooling sphere works by preventing heat from entering or escaping the sphere. The insulating materials used in its construction act as barriers to heat transfer, keeping the temperature inside the sphere consistent. Additionally, some insulated cooling spheres may also have a cooling mechanism, such as a refrigerant, to actively lower the temperature inside.

3. What are the applications of an insulated cooling sphere?

An insulated cooling sphere has various applications in scientific research, food storage and transportation, and medical treatments. It can be used to maintain a specific temperature for experiments, prevent food spoilage during transport, and provide localized cooling for medical treatments.

4. How do I choose the right size of an insulated cooling sphere?

The size of an insulated cooling sphere depends on the volume and shape of the substance or object that needs to be cooled. It is important to choose a sphere that can comfortably fit the material without being too large, as this could lead to unnecessary energy consumption.

5. Are there any safety precautions to consider when using an insulated cooling sphere?

Yes, it is important to handle an insulated cooling sphere with care, as some may contain hazardous materials, such as liquid nitrogen. It is also crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions and not exceed the recommended temperature limits. Additionally, proper ventilation should be ensured when using a cooling sphere to prevent the buildup of potentially harmful gases.

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