Problem 10 - Beginning and Intermediate Algebra

Question

The freezing point of water is \(0^{\circ}\) Celsius. The boiling point of water is \(100^{\circ}\) Celsius. Write an inequality statement using \(<\) or \(>\) comparing the numbers 0 and \(100 .\)

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

0 < 100

Step 1: Understanding the Problem

We are asked to compare the freezing point and boiling point of water on the Celsius scale using an inequality.

Step 2: Identify Key Values

The freezing point of water is given as 0°C, and the boiling point is 100°C.

Step 3: Apply Inequality

Since 0 is less than 100, we use the inequality symbol '<'. Thus, we can write the inequality: \(0 < 100\).

Key Concepts

Freezing Point

The freezing point of a substance is the temperature at which it changes state from a liquid to a solid. For water, this occurs at 0 degrees Celsius. This means at 0°C, water turns into ice. Understanding the freezing point is crucial for many practical purposes such as:

• Weather forecasting - predicting ice formation.
• Food preservation - ensuring food is frozen to prevent spoilage.
• Science experiments - solidifying substances for study.

Recognizing the freezing point helps in various scientific and everyday applications. Knowing that 0°C is the freezing point of water helps us understand this phase change under normal atmospheric pressure.

Boiling Point

The boiling point is the temperature at which a substance transitions from a liquid to a gas. For water, this happens at 100 degrees Celsius. This is when water turns into steam. Several factors can influence boiling points, including atmospheric pressure. Here are some daily implications:

• Cooking – boiling water for soups or pasta.
• Industrial processes – evaporation techniques.
• Weather systems – understanding humidity and heat.

The boiling point is essential for processes that rely on maintaining a specific temperature for substances to evaporate. Water’s boiling point at 100°C is a standard reference for scientific experiments and culinary techniques.

Celsius Scale

The Celsius scale is a metric temperature scale that is widely used around the world, especially in science, education, and many nations' daily weather reports. This scale is based on two major points: the freezing point of water at 0°C and the boiling point at 100°C under standard atmospheric pressure. Key elements of the Celsius scale include:

• Linear design – easy to use and understand.
• Commonly used in scientific calculations.
• Part of the metric system – integrated with other SI units.

Using the Celsius scale, we can easily express temperature differences and other thermal concepts. It’s also helpful in converting to or from other temperature scales, like Fahrenheit, by using conversion formulas. This simplicity makes it a preferred scale for many applications worldwide.