Question

a student wants to investigate how thermal energy transfers in a closed system. they place a sealed can of hot water inside an insulated container with a thermometer attached. they observe the temperature change over time. which action would best help the student examine the thermal energy transfer between the can and its surroundings? opening the can to release heat into the surrounding air measuring the temperature inside the can at regular intervals removing the insulation to let air circulate around the can adding more hot water to raise the internal temperature

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze each option

Opening the can changes the system from closed to open, removing insulation changes the insulation - state, adding more hot water changes the initial conditions. Measuring temperature at intervals helps observe heat transfer over time.

Step2: Determine the best option

Measuring the temperature inside the can at regular intervals allows the student to track how the thermal energy is transferred between the can and its surroundings as the temperature changes over time.

Answer:

measuring the temperature inside the can at regular intervals