Question

A hot metal plate at 150°C has been placed in air at room temperature. Which event would most likely take place over the next few minutes?
Molecules in both the metal and the surrounding air will start moving at lower speeds.
Molecules in both the metal and the surrounding air will start moving at higher speeds.
The air molecules that are surrounding the metal will slow down, and the molecules in the metal will speed up.
The air molecules that are surrounding the metal will speed up, and the molecules in the metal will slow down.

Answer 1

Answer:

The air molecules that are surrounding the metal will speed up, and the molecules in the metal will slow down.

Explanation:

There will be a transfer of thermal energy (heat) from the hot metal plate to the surrounding air. This transfer of energy equates to a transfer of kinetic energy in the molecules. As the plate loses heat, the molecules in the plate will lose kinetic energy and slow down. As the surrounding air gains heat, the molecules will gain kinetic energy and speed up.