Topic: Thermodynamics
A block of ice at $-10^{\circ}C$ is slowly heated and converted to steam at $100^{\circ}C$. Which of the following curves represent the phenomena qualitatively?
- A.
- B.
- C.
- D.
Answer: A.
Explanation: The heating process occurs in stages: (I) Heating of ice from $-10^{\circ}C$ to $0^{\circ}C$ where the temperature increases. (II) Phase change from ice to water at $0^{\circ}C$ where the temperature remains constant. (III) Heating of water from $0^{\circ}C$ to $100^{\circ}C$ where the temperature increases again. (IV) Phase change from water to steam at $100^{\circ}C$ where the temperature remains constant. Curve (a) correctly depicts these alternating temperature rises and constant temperature plateaus.