Question

An object’s temperature is related to its thermal energy – a change in temperature indicates a change in its thermal energy. How can you design the investigation to ensure reproducible results? What variable should you control?

Answer 1

To ensure reproducible results in an investigation on the relationship between temperature and thermal energy, control variables such as initial temperature, heating/cooling method, and object size and material.

Step-by-step explanation:

In order to ensure reproducible results in an investigation on the relationship between an object's temperature and its thermal energy, there are several variables that should be controlled. One important variable to control is the initial temperature of the object being studied. By starting with the same initial temperature for each trial, you can ensure that any observed changes in temperature are due to the manipulation of other variables rather than initial temperature differences.

Another variable to control is the heating or cooling method. Using a consistent heating or cooling method, such as a specific type of heating source or a refrigerator, will help ensure that the amount of thermal energy added or removed from the object remains consistent from trial to trial.

Additionally, it is important to control the size and material of the object. Objects with different sizes or materials may have different thermal properties, which could affect their temperature changes. By using objects with the same size and material, you can minimize this potential source of variation.