Final Answer:
When wax is introduced to cold water, the lower temperature promotes faster congealing. This occurs because the molecules in the wax lose thermal energy rapidly in the colder environment, leading to a more rapid transition from liquid to solid state. In contrast, hot water tends to slow down the solidification process, as higher temperatures allow molecules to retain more energy, delaying the hardening of the wax. So, the correct option is b) Cold water hardens faster.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct option is b) Cold water hardens faster. In the comparison between wax hardening in hot water and cold water, the final answer is (b) Cold water hardens faster. This phenomenon can be understood by considering the molecular behavior of wax in different temperature environments. When wax is introduced to cold water, the lower temperature expedites the solidification process. In colder conditions, molecules in the wax lose thermal energy more rapidly, leading to a swift transition from a liquid to a solid state. The cold environment promotes a more efficient packing of molecules, fostering a quicker and more cohesive arrangement.
Conversely, in hot water, the higher temperature has the opposite effect. Molecules in the wax retain more thermal energy in a warmer environment, slowing down the solidification process. The heightened temperature allows the molecules to maintain a more disordered state for a longer duration, impeding the formation of a solid structure.
Understanding this temperature-dependent behavior is crucial, especially in applications such as candle making or other industrial processes where the rate of wax solidification plays a pivotal role. The choice between hot and cold water becomes a critical factor in controlling the speed and quality of the solidification process.