Heating curve of water

O/L Science · G.C.E. Ordinary Level · Grades 10–11

Aim

To see how the temperature changes with time as ice is heated.

Apparatus

• A beaker of crushed ice
• Thermometer and stopwatch
• Heater or burner

Method

1. Note the starting temperature and begin heating.
2. Read the temperature every minute.
3. Watch the melting and boiling stages.
4. Plot temperature against time.

Conclusion

During melting (0 °C) and boiling (100 °C) the temperature stays constant even though heat is supplied: that heat changes the state (latent heat).