As warm water sits in a cool room, you measure the temperature change ( T = T – final T ). Which of the following is true? initial
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. When measuring temperature change, the size of the change will depend on the scale used. In Fahrenheit (°F), the scale has larger degrees compared to Celsius (°C). Therefore, the temperature change will appear bigger when measured in Fahrenheit. This is because each degree Fahrenheit is smaller in magnitude compared to each degree Celsius.
Choices B and C are incorrect. In choice B, the temperature change will not be bigger if measured in °C because each degree Celsius is larger in magnitude compared to each degree Fahrenheit. Choice C is incorrect because the temperature change does depend on the scale used.
Choice D is incorrect because the difference in temperature between the water and the room does not affect the scale used for measurement. The scale itself determines the magnitude of the temperature change.