Wood has chemical energy, which can be used to generate thermal and radiant energy when burned in a fireplace. Which best explains what happens to the total amount of energy in this scenario?
Answer
A
The total energy in the system increases because chemical energy creates thermal and radiant energy.
B
The total energy in the system decreases because chemical energy disappears as thermal and radiant energy are generated.
C
The total energy in the system remains the same as the decrease in chemical energy equals the increase in thermal and radiant energy.
D
The total energy in the system remains the same as the increase in chemical energy equals the decrease in thermal and radiant energy.
Explanation
Energy is conserved: burning wood changes chemical energy into thermal and radiant energy, rather than creating or destroying energy. The decrease in chemical energy equals the increase in the other forms, so the total energy remains the same. Choice C describes this conservation.
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