Question

What happens to the shape of a tin can filled with hot air when it is kept in a refrigerator?

• A. Pressure inside the can is equal to the atmospheric pressure - final shape depends on the atmospheric pressure.
• B. Pressure inside the can is less than that outside, so it shrinks.
• C. Pressure outside the can is same as that inside, so the shape remains the same.
• D. Pressure inside the can is more than that outside, so it shrinks.

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Pressure inside the can is less than that outside, so it shrinks.

The density of hot air is less than the density of cold air. Therefore the pressure inside the can is less than the pressure outside it, which results in the change of shape that is, inwards.