THERMODYNAMICS PROJECT WORK

GROUP 30
PROJECT TOPIC: CAN HOT WATER FREEZE FASTER THAN COLD WATER?

REPORT
Yes, Hot water freezes faster than cold water. This is as a result of a phenomenon known as
Mpemba effect.
The Mpemba effect is a phenomenon where hot water freezes faster than cold water under
certain conditions. The effect has been observed since ancient times, but the scientific
explanation behind it is still not fully understood. There are several possible explanations for the
Mpemba effect. One is that hot water has a higher rate of evaporation than cold water, which can
remove heat from the water more quickly and cause it to cool faster. Additionally, hot water may
have fewer dissolved gases, such as oxygen and carbon dioxide, which can act as nucleation sites
for ice crystal formation. Without these nucleation sites, the hot water may take longer to form
ice crystals, leading to a faster freezing time. Another explanation is that convection currents can
form more easily in hot water, causing it to cool more quickly and leading to a faster freezing
time. As hot water cools and becomes denser, it sinks to the bottom of the container, which can
help to stir the water and distribute any impurities more evenly. This can also result in fewer
nucleation sites for ice crystal formation, contributing to a faster freezing time. Despite the
numerous possible explanations, the Mpemba effect is still not fully understood, and further
research is needed to determine the exact mechanisms behind the phenomenon. Nonetheless, the
effect has significant implications in various fields, including materials science, chemistry, and
physics. Understanding the Mpemba effect can help scientists better understand the properties of
water and the factors that influence its behavior, leading to potential applications in fields such as
cryogenics and energy storage.

GROUP MEMBERS NAMES

Nicholas Kueli 8675521
Kpodo Mawunyo Michael 8675421
Donkor Selorm 8674321
Priscilla Owusu Patoa 8677121