Melting ice - how many photons?

First, calculate the energy needed to melt 2 kg of ice using the heat of fusion of water. Then, use the equation E=hc/lambda to find the number of photons needed by dividing the energy by the energy of each photon at the given wavelength. On average, each photon will convert one H2O molecule from the ice phase to the water phase. In summary, to melt 2 kg of ice at 0 degrees into water at 0 degrees using photons with a wavelength of 620*10^-9, you will need to absorb a certain number of photons, which can be calculated by dividing the energy required to melt the ice by the energy of each photon. On average, one photon will convert one H2O molecule
  • #1
mss90
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Homework Statement


how many photons (lambda=620*10^-9) must be absorbed to melt 2kg block of ice at 0deg into water at 0deg? and on average, how many H2O molecules does one photon convert from the ice phase to water phase?

Homework Equations


E=hc/lambda

The Attempt at a Solution


I have no idea how to do this? Never done anything like it before!
Any hints?
 
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  • #2
Recall your first semester physics where you learned how to find the heat required to melt ice. The energy of the photons absorbed by the ice can be considered as equivalent to the required heat.
 

FAQ: Melting ice - how many photons?

1. How does melting ice affect the number of photons?

Melting ice does not directly affect the number of photons. However, as ice melts, it can change the reflective properties of the surface, which can impact the amount of sunlight absorbed and therefore the number of photons present in the area.

2. Can the number of photons impact the rate of ice melting?

Yes, the number of photons present can impact the rate of ice melting. Photons from sunlight carry energy, which is absorbed by the ice and causes it to melt. The more photons present, the more energy is available to melt the ice, therefore increasing the rate of melting.

3. Is there a specific number of photons needed to melt ice?

There is no specific number of photons needed to melt ice. The rate of melting depends on various factors such as the intensity of sunlight, the reflective properties of the surface, and the temperature. However, generally, the more photons present, the faster the ice will melt.

4. Can melting ice affect the number of photons in the atmosphere?

Yes, melting ice can indirectly affect the number of photons in the atmosphere. As ice melts, it can release particles and gases into the air, which can impact the scattering and absorption of sunlight and therefore alter the number of photons present in the atmosphere.

5. How does the number of photons impact the Earth's climate?

The number of photons present in the Earth's atmosphere plays a significant role in the planet's climate. The absorption and reflection of photons by different surfaces, such as ice and land, can affect the temperature and weather patterns. Changes in the number of photons can also contribute to climate change and global warming.

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