Math Problem Statement

Later, the temperature of each block is measured again. Which pair of temperatures is possible?

Solution

To determine the possible temperature pairs for each block, let's examine the temperature changes and select the plausible outcome based on thermal equilibrium principles.

In the original scenario:

  • Block 1 has a temperature of 170°C.
  • Block 2 has a temperature of 178°C.

Over time, if the blocks are in contact and no external heat is added or removed, the temperatures should move toward equilibrium, meaning they will likely approach each other’s temperatures. Thus, the temperature of each block would converge toward an intermediate value between 170°C and 178°C.

Evaluating Each Option

  1. Option 1: Block 1 = 170°C, Block 2 = 174°C

    • This option shows Block 1’s temperature staying the same while Block 2 decreases slightly. It’s possible since Block 2 could cool down towards Block 1’s temperature, but it’s unusual for Block 1’s temperature to remain constant if they're in contact.
  2. Option 2: Block 1 = 167°C, Block 2 = 175°C

    • This option shows both blocks cooling slightly but still with a difference of 8°C. It’s plausible since both blocks could cool down independently, though it’s unusual as they should move closer together.
  3. Option 3: Block 1 = 174°C, Block 2 = 174°C

    • This option indicates both blocks reaching the same temperature (thermal equilibrium). This outcome is very likely as it suggests heat has equalized.
  4. Option 4: Block 1 = 177°C, Block 2 = 171°C

    • This option shows temperatures that are reversed, with Block 1 becoming hotter than Block 2. This is unlikely since Block 2 was initially hotter and would transfer heat to Block 1, not the other way around.
  5. Option 5: Block 1 = 177°C, Block 2 = 171°C

    • This option is identical to Option 4 and equally unlikely.

Conclusion

The most likely answer is Option 3 (Block 1 = 174°C, Block 2 = 174°C) because it represents thermal equilibrium, where the temperatures of both blocks are the same.

Would you like a further breakdown, or do you have any questions?


Here are five related questions to explore further:

  1. What is thermal equilibrium and how does it apply to this scenario?
  2. How does heat transfer work between objects of different temperatures?
  3. Why is it unlikely for temperatures to reverse without external factors?
  4. What are the different modes of heat transfer (conduction, convection, radiation)?
  5. How would insulation affect the temperature change between the two blocks?

Tip: When two objects at different temperatures are in contact, they exchange heat until they reach a common temperature, achieving thermal equilibrium.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Thermal Equilibrium
Heat Transfer

Formulas

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Theorems

Thermal Equilibrium Principle

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 5-8