GS PrelimsScience and TechnologyGeneral Science2010

What is the principle by which a cooling system (Radiator) in a motor car works?

A

Conduction only

B

Convection

C

Radiation only

D

Both conduction and radiation

Correct Answer: Option B

Explanation

1. The question asks for the principle by which a car's cooling system (Radiator) works. 2. The engine generates heat, which is absorbed by a coolant (usually a water-antifreeze mixture) circulating through the engine block. 3. This hot coolant then flows to the radiator. 4. The radiator consists of many thin tubes and fins, providing a large surface area. 5. Air flows through the radiator (either due to the car's motion or a fan). 6. Heat transfer occurs primarily through convection: the moving air carries heat away from the radiator's surface as the hot coolant flows through the tubes. Heat also moves from the coolant to the radiator tubes/fins via conduction, and some heat is lost via radiation, but the dominant mechanism for transferring heat *from the radiator to the surrounding air* is convection. 7. Option B, Convection, best describes the primary working principle of heat dissipation in a car radiator.

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