Question

Two identical pots, one black and one silver, containing exactly the same amounts of water, are heated to the same temperature. They are left uncovered and placed in the same room. After 15 minutes the water in the black pot is significantly cooler than the water in the silver pot. Which of these statements best explains this difference?
A)The black pot emits heat at a faster rate than the silver pot.
B)The black pot allows more heat to be lost through evaporation.
C)The silver pot absorbs heat from the surroundings in the room.
D)The silver pot reflects heat into the water and keeps it warm longer.

Answer 1

The most probable answer is: (a) The black pot emits heat at a faster rate than the silver pot. It means the black pot conducts heat at a higher rate than the silver pot, that's why it cooled off faster. It also means that the silver pot retains heat better and is more of an insulator.

Answer 2

Answer: Option (A) is the correct answer.

Explanation:

Black color absorbs heat more quickly and it also emits heat at a faster rate.

Whereas silver is one of the best conductor of heat and electricity. Therefore, it absorbs heat more quickly but it does not emit heat at a faster rate.

Therefore, we can conclude that the statement black pot emits heat at a faster rate than the silver pot best explains that black pot is significantly cooler than the water in the silver pot.