How can the volume of water needed to melt an iceberg be determined?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the process of melting an iceberg of mass m_{ice} using the heat from the ocean at temperature T_{ocean}. The volume of water needed to melt the iceberg is determined by the equation m_{ice}c_{ice}(0-T_{ice})+m_{ice}L_{f}+m_{ice}c_{ice}(T_{equ}-0)=m_{ocean}c_{ocean}(T_{ocean}-T_{equ}), where the temperature of equilibrium, T_{equ}, is unknown. The problem is that there is no other equation to determine T_{equ}, and in an ideal scenario, the heat from the ocean would evenly melt the iceberg. The issue is
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dilasluis
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1. An iceberg of mass [tex]m_{ice}[/tex] is melted by the ocean at temperature [tex]T_{ocean}[/tex]. Knowing that the iceberg is at a temperature [tex]T_{ice}[/tex] what was the volume of water needed to melt the iceberg?



2. [tex]m_{ice}c_{ice}(0-T_{ice})+m_{ice}L_{f}+m_{ice}c_{ice}(T_{equ}-0)=m_{ocean}c_{ocean}(T_{ocean}-T_{equ})[/tex]




3. The problem is that I can't find another equation to determine the temperature of equilibrium.
 
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  • #2
The volume of water needed to melt the iceberg? What's that supposed to mean? In an ideal world, every water molecule in the ocean gives an equal amount of heat to the iceberg.
 
  • #3
I solved the problem considering that the equilibrium temperature is 0ºC. The iceberg is melted and it lowers the water temperature around it to 0ºC. Anyone has any idea?
 

FAQ: How can the volume of water needed to melt an iceberg be determined?

How does the ocean cause an iceberg to melt?

The ocean causes an iceberg to melt through a process called thermal erosion. Ocean water is warmer than the ice, causing the ice to melt on contact. The constant churning and movement of the ocean, along with the sun's heat, also contribute to the melting of icebergs.

How long does it take for an iceberg to melt in the ocean?

The amount of time it takes for an iceberg to melt in the ocean varies depending on several factors, such as the size and shape of the iceberg, the temperature of the ocean, and the amount of sunlight it receives. Some icebergs can take years to melt completely, while others may only last a few months.

Is the melting of icebergs in the ocean a natural process?

Yes, the melting of icebergs in the ocean is a natural process. As part of the Earth's water cycle, icebergs break off from glaciers and ice shelves and eventually melt in the ocean. However, the rate at which icebergs are melting has greatly increased due to human-caused climate change.

How does the melting of icebergs affect ocean levels?

The melting of icebergs does not directly contribute to a rise in ocean levels. This is because the icebergs are already floating in the ocean and displacing water. However, as the ice sheets and glaciers that feed the icebergs continue to melt, they can contribute to a rise in sea levels.

What impact does melting icebergs have on marine life?

The melting of icebergs can have a significant impact on marine life. As the icebergs melt, they release fresh water into the ocean, which can alter the salinity levels and affect the habitats of marine animals. Additionally, the melting of icebergs can also contribute to ocean acidification, which can harm marine organisms with shells or skeletons made of calcium carbonate.

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