Question

Josh did an experiment recording the changes in temperature in sand and water when exposed to a light source, and then when the light source was removed. Josh noticed that the sand heated up faster than the water and then cools faster than the water. Josh concludes that
Responses

A sand is the better insulator.sand is the better insulator.

B water is the better conductor.water is the better conductor.

C water is the better insulator.water is the better insulator.

D sand has a higher heat capacity

Answers

GPT-4o mini
Josh's observations suggest that sand heats up and cools down more quickly than water. This behavior indicates that sand has a lower specific heat capacity than water, which means it requires less heat energy to change its temperature.

Based on the options provided, the most accurate conclusion related to Josh's experiment would be:

**D: sand has a higher heat capacity.**

However, note that the interpretation may seem counterintuitive since sand actually has a lower heat capacity than water. It's possible there's a misunderstanding in the option's wording. Ideally, if the question were correctly capturing the essence of Josh's findings, option D should state "sand has a lower heat capacity," which aligns with the observations that it heats up and cools down faster than water.

If the wording is indeed incorrect, none of the responses accurately capture the essence of the experiment's findings. Please confirm the intent of the options provided for better guidance.