On Application of Specific Heat Capacity of Solids

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on the concept of specific heat capacity and its effects on temperature differences between sand and water. Sand heats up and cools down quickly due to its low specific heat, while water, with a high specific heat, retains heat longer, making it feel cold even when the sand is hot. This property of water contributes to more stable temperatures in coastal areas, making them more comfortable for living. The conversation also touches on regional variations, noting that water temperatures can vary significantly based on location. Understanding specific heat helps explain these everyday experiences at the beach.
franz32
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Hello again!

I'm not sure if this is difficult but I believe that everyone have experienced this... I can't explain it... =) Sorry about that.

Anyway, here's my problem...

At noon, when the sand in the beach is already hot, why does the water still feel cold? Early in the night when the cold wind blows, why can you swim comfortably?
Why is it more comfortable to live in places near large bodies of water?

I hope someone could help me here...
 
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He's right, you did answer your own question.

The sand is hot because it takes very little energy to change the temperature of sand. Sand also cools off quickly. When day changes to night, the sand quickly changes its temperature until it is the same temperature as the air.
The water takes lots of energy to heat up. When night time comes, there is so much energy stored in the water that it takes a long time for the water to reach equilibrium with the air.
 
Thanks!

Hello! Ambitwistor, specific heat is the amount of heat
needed to raise the temperature of a unit mass of a substance by one degree. I know what it means, but I don't really get how is this applied to simple events...

Well, now I know... =) Thank you very much for your hints and guides. =) Thank you too, ShawnD.
 
You're also only heating the surface of the sand to a depth of a few inches. With the sea, the motion of it ensures that the heat energy is dipersed more efficiently.
 
Of course, depending on where you are, the water will always be warm (Hawaii) or always be cold (Alaska).
 
Originally posted by franz32

Why is it more comfortable to live in places near large bodies of water?
It is because the specific heat of water is high, there cannnot be high differences in temperature at the place. So protecting the homeostasis is easier.
 
Originally posted by NateTG
Of course, depending on where you are, the water will always be warm (Hawaii) or always be cold (Alaska).
...or dirty (New Jersey).
 

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