The Science Behind Why Chocolate Melts in a S'more
Why does the chocolate candy melt in the s'more?
A) The friction between the chocolate and marshmallow creates a lot of heat.
B) The candy bar gets cooler because the marshmallow absorbs heat from it.
C) The pressure applied by pushing the s'more together makes the candy bar melt.
D) The heat from the marshmallow is transferred to the candy bar to make it melt.
Answer:
The chocolate in a s'more melts due to the process of conduction, where heat from the warm toasted marshmallow is transferred to the cooler chocolate bar, causing it to melt.
A s'more is a classic campfire treat made of two graham crackers, a marshmallow, and a chocolate candy bar. When the s'more is assembled with the hot, toasted marshmallow sandwiched between the graham crackers and chocolate, the heat from the marshmallow is efficiently transferred to the chocolate through a process known as conduction.
Conduction:
Conduction is the transfer of heat between objects that are in direct contact with each other. In this case, the marshmallow, which is the hottest component of the s'more, is directly touching the chocolate candy bar. Since heat moves from a warmer object to a cooler one, the heat from the marshmallow is transferred to the chocolate, causing it to melt.
Unlike the other options provided, the melting of the chocolate in a s'more is not due to friction, pressure, or heat absorption. Instead, it is a result of the heat transfer process of conduction.
Next time you enjoy a s'more by the campfire, remember that the deliciously melted chocolate is thanks to the science of conduction!