Chapter 12, Problem 41A

To determine

Whether your body is a good judge of temperature.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The body is made up of matter with thermal energy. Body is sensitive to heat flow to and fro from the body and is a good judge of temperature.

Body is good judge of temperature and the flow of heat energy. During winter, a metal knob feels colder than a wooden knob because metal is good conductor of heat and absorbs heat from the skin. Wooden doorknob is a bad conductor of heat and therefore, does not absorb heat as quickly as metal. Hence, the metal feels much colder during winter.

Conclusion:

Body is good judge of temperature. During winters metal feels colder than wood because it absorbs heat from the body faster being a better conductor of heat than wood.