As a popcorn kernel is warmed, the water inside the kernel vaporizes and the ker

Question

As a popcorn kernel is warmed, the water inside the kernel vaporizes and the kernel pops as a result. Two students are having a discussion about this after just having learned about the First Law of Thermodynamics. Student A: Since the popcorn has to be heated, heat energy is supplied to the kernels and since the heat vaporizes the water, work is done on them and therefore the internal energy of the kernels increase. Student B: I agree that heat energy is supplied but since the water vaporizes, it expands and does work on the kernels. Since energy has to be conserved, the heat energy supplied is equal to the work done by the water in the kernels. Therefore, the internal energy of the kernels does not change. Which student do you agree with and why? If you do not agree with either student, state why. Be sure to address/explain all parts of the statements made by both students.

Explanation / Answer

As a popcorn kernel is warmed, the water inside the kernel vaporizes and the ker

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