Why Hot Water in Smaller Quantities is Less Painful

AI Thread Summary
Hot water in smaller quantities causes less pain because the heat energy transferred to the skin is lower than with larger amounts. Tiny droplets do not raise the temperature of the skin beneath them as significantly, preventing nerve damage and pain. This phenomenon can be explained by the Method of Mixtures, which illustrates how heat transfer works. In contrast, a large spill raises the skin temperature quickly, leading to serious injuries. Understanding this principle can help in managing hot water exposure safely.
threy
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When tiny droplets of hot water touch your hand you don't feel much pain but when large amount of hot water spills on your hand it will cause serious injuries. Why?

- is this due to the heat energy in the tiny droplets of water is lesser so the energy transferred to the hand is lesser therefore the hand does not feel much pain?
 
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Yes. If the droplets are small enough, the temperature under your skin - where the nerves are - does not get as high as that of the water drops on initial contact. (Google Method of Mixtures; something we were all taught at school, way back in the past)
 

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