Question 42

Energy is released to the surroundings during the formation of raindrops in a cloud.

When raindrops form in a cloud, water vapor condenses into liquid droplets, releasing latent heat to the surrounding air. This process signifies a transition from gas to liquid, during which energy is emitted.

A) Ice melting in a cooler

Ice melting is an endothermic process where energy is absorbed from the surroundings to convert solid ice into liquid water. Thus, this option does not involve energy being released.

B) Glass bottles becoming molten in a furnace

The process of glass bottles becoming molten in a furnace requires the input of heat energy to overcome the solid state, thus resulting in energy absorption rather than release. This option is also incorrect.

C) Puddles on the sidewalk drying up

While puddles drying up may seem like energy is being released to the surroundings through evaporation, it primarily involves the absorption of heat from the environment to convert liquid water into vapor. Therefore, this option does not represent energy release.

D) Raindrops forming in a cloud

This option correctly describes the release of energy to the surroundings. As water vapor condenses into raindrops, latent heat is released into the atmosphere, making this the only option where energy is emitted.

Conclusion

The correct answer is D, as it accurately reflects the phase change where energy is released during the condensation of water vapor into liquid. Options A, B, and C involve processes that either absorb energy or do not pertain directly to energy release, confirming D as the definitive choice.