Energy Transfer

Capillarity, or capillary action, is the ability of a liquid to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of, and in opposition to, external forces like gravity. Capillary action allows the kerosene to rise up the wick, where it can then be ignited. Drinking with a straw relies on the principle of air pressure rather than capillarity. When you suck the air out of the straw, you create a pressure difference that forces the drink into the straw. Blotting paper absorbs ink or any liquid due to capillary action, where the liquid is drawn into the small pores of the blotting paper. Capillary action is critical for transporting water from the roots to the leaves of tall trees against the force of gravity.

**Statement 1 is correct:** The size of the hole in the lid regulates the amount of steam released. A larger hole permits more steam to escape, leading to reduced pressure and subsequently affecting the temperature. **Statement 2 is incorrect:** Boiling water can never exceed 100 degrees Celsius, regardless of the intensity of the flame beneath the pot. However, within a pressure cooker, the temperature can elevate to as high as 121 degrees Celsius. The heightened cooking temperature serves to decrease the cooking duration rather than the temperature itself. **Statement 3 is correct:** If the weight is heavier, it will require higher pressure to lift it, resulting in higher pressure inside the cooker before excess steam can escape. Higher pressure leads to a higher boiling point for the water inside the cooker, which in turn increases the cooking temperature. Conversely, if the weight is lighter, it results in a lower pressure inside the cooker and a lower boiling point for the water, leading to a lower cooking temperature.