What are some factors that affect the drying time of table utensils?

[jangheej]

hi =)
i'm doing an experiment on 2011 iypt problem Air Drying.
-> "table utensils, after being washed, dry differently. Investigate how the drying time depends on relevant parameters."

I've just begun on the experiment and have difficulty figuring out where to start!
I'm thinking about measuring the drying time depending on different material(glass, plastic, acryl, wood, ceramic, stainless steel).

What else could be a "relevant parameter"?
Can you suggest some ideas??

 

[turbo]

How about the temperature of the utensils after they are rinsed, and their thermal mass? A heavy ceramic plate that emerges from the rinse very hot should dry quickly.

 

[Grayfox]

You should definitely evaluate the geometries of the utensils, since the drying will occur by convective and natural diffusion as the small pools of water expel their vapor pressures. More convection means higher diffusivity, which is a direct result of geometrical obstructions and/or greater surface areas.