Equilibrium temperature of a mixture

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the equilibrium temperature of a mixture involving steam and milk. The initial equation setup is criticized for not accurately representing the heat transfer process, as it incorrectly assumes the steam cools directly to the milk's temperature. Participants suggest using a more precise approach by equating the heat lost from the steam to the heat gained by the milk, rather than using a vague Q_in = Q_out. The correct interpretation of the terms in the equation is emphasized to clarify the heat exchange dynamics. Ultimately, the goal is to resolve the discrepancy in the calculated equilibrium temperature, which should be 90°C.
frazdaz
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Homework Statement


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Homework Equations


Q = m c \Delta T \\<br /> Q = m L_v \\<br /> Q_{in} = Q_{out}

The Attempt at a Solution


m_s c_s (100 - 8) + m_s L_v = m_s c_s (100 - T) + m_m c_s (T) \\<br /> 5778.06 + 33900 = 5778.06 - 62.805 T + 418.7 T \\<br /> 33900 = 355.895 T \\<br /> ∴ T = 95.25°C<br />
Answer should be 90. This particular working is using 8°C as a base but I've with absolute temperatures and still got the same answer so I'm guessing my logic is flawed?
Thanks
 
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Your first equation doesn't appear to be set up correctly. The left side has two terms and the right side has two terms.

Can you describe in words the meaning of each of the four terms in the equation?
 
TSny said:
Your first equation doesn't appear to be set up correctly. The left side has two terms and the right side has two terms.

Can you describe in words the meaning of each of the four terms in the equation?
Qin = extra thermal energy the steam has over the milk + heat to be released when the steam condenses
Qout = heat lost from the steam + heat gained by milk
 
The term

m_{s}c_{s}(100-8)

implies that the mass of steam cools from 100 C to the temperature of the milk at 8 C after the steam condenses. This is clearly not the case, as the mixture will assume some as yet unknown temperature, which is higher than 8 C once thermal equilibrium is reached.

Rather than use Q_{in} = Q_{out}, which is somewhat vague for this type of problem, why not use instead Q_{lost-from-steam} = Q_{gained-by-milk}
 
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