Energy Transfer

Question 1

Why does painting an object dull black maximise the rate of energy transfer?

Answer 1

Painting an object dull black maximises the rate of energy transfer because dull black surfaces are the best emitters of radiation.

Question 2

What does the rate of energy transfer depend on?

Answer 2

The rate of energy transfer to or from an object depends on:

• the shape, size and type of material of the object
• the material the object is in contact with
• the temperature difference between the object and its surroundings