Physics 2013 JAMB Past Questions - Question 21: Steam from boiling water causes more damage on the skin than does boiling water beacuse

Correct Answer

D

Explanation

steam brings heat more easily by convention than boiling water due to latent heat of vaporization.
Steam from boiling water can indeed cause more damage to the skin compared to boiling water itself. This is primarily due to the difference in temperature and the way heat is transferred. When water is boiling, it typically reaches a temperature of 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit). However, steam can be much hotter, often exceeding 100 degrees Celsius.

When steam comes into contact with the skin, it transfers its heat rapidly, causing more severe burns. Steam has a higher heat capacity and thermal conductivity compared to liquid water, which means it can transfer more heat energy to the skin in a shorter amount of time. Additionally, steam can penetrate deeper into the skin, leading to more extensive damage.

It's important to exercise caution when dealing with boiling water or steam to avoid burns.