SUMMARY
The original mass of the ice block can be calculated using the principles of thermal equilibrium and the heat of fusion. The final temperature of the system is established at 0 degrees Celsius, as the ice and water coexist without further melting. The calculations involve the specific heats of water (4.186 kJ/kg) and aluminum (0.9 kJ/kg), along with the heat of fusion for ice (333 kJ/kg). The correct approach yields an initial mass of approximately 38.3 grams, accounting for the 2 grams of ice that remain unmelted.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of thermal equilibrium concepts
- Familiarity with specific heat capacities of water and aluminum
- Knowledge of the heat of fusion for ice
- Ability to apply energy conservation principles in thermal systems
NEXT STEPS
- Study the concept of thermal equilibrium in detail
- Learn about the heat of fusion and its applications in phase changes
- Explore specific heat calculations for different materials
- Practice solving problems involving calorimetry and energy conservation
USEFUL FOR
Students in physics or chemistry, educators teaching thermodynamics, and anyone interested in understanding heat transfer and phase changes in materials.