Question

an experiment was conducted in a closed system where a hot metal cube was placed inside a sealed container with air. sensors recorded the temperatures of both the cube and the air over time. the data showed that the cubes temperature decreased while the airs temperature increased, eventually reaching the same temperature. based on the investigation, which statement best describes the energy - distribution in the system? the metal cube and the air both gain thermal energy until they equalize the metal cube loses thermal energy, but the total energy stays the same the metal cube loses thermal energy, and the total energy decreases slowly the metal cube gains thermal energy, and the total energy increases slowly

Explanation:

In a closed - system, energy is conserved. The hot metal cube loses thermal energy which is transferred to the air in the container. The total energy of the system (metal cube + air) remains constant as there is no energy exchange with the outside.

Answer:

The metal cube loses thermal energy, but the total energy stays the same