Final answer:
The warmth produced is due to an exothermic reaction involving calcium chloride and water. Michael can create a hotter hand warmer by increasing the amounts of calcium chloride and water, or by experimenting to find the optimal ratio of these reactants.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the given context, the warmth the boys are feeling is due to a chemical reaction. The reaction involves water and calcium chloride, where calcium chloride dissolves in water and produces heat. This is an example of an exothermic reaction. To make a hotter hand warmer, Michael can manipulate the reactants, i.e., increase the amount of water in the smaller bag and the quantity of calcium chloride in the larger bag (option C). Alternatively, Michael could experiment with the amount of each reactant to find the optimal ratio (option D) that yields the most heat.
This process involves chemical thermodynamics, specifically the concept of enthalpy change, as heat is released in the reaction. But keep in mind, more reactants will lead to more heat, but safety is a key aspect, and overdoing could lead to damage.
Learn more about Exothermic Reaction