Chapter 13, Problem 55A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: It is to be explained why liquid stays at a constant temperature while it is boiling.

Concept introduction:

Kinetic energy is a type of energy that a moving object or particle possesses. Among liquids, solids, and gases, gases possess the highest kinetic energy.

Answer to Problem 55A

The average kinetic energy of molecules of the body increases in case of fever.

Explanation of Solution

The relationship between kinetic energy and temperature is as follows:

  $E_k=\frac{3}{2}{k}_{B}T$

Here, $E_k$ is kinetic energy, $k_B$ is Boltzmann’s constant, and $T$ is temperature.

Thus, from the above expression, kinetic energy is directly proportional to temperature.

Your body temperature rises while you are contagious with a fever. Consequently, your body's water molecules now have an average kinetic energy that is higher.