What is the latent heat of fusion for water?

The latent heat of fusion for water is the amount of energy required to change water from its solid state (ice) to its liquid state without changing its temperature. This phase transition occurs at 32°F (0°C) and involves a significant amount of energy absorbed as latent heat.

The correct answer of 144 BTU/lb reflects this process accurately for water. This means that for every pound of ice that melts, 144 BTUs of energy are needed to break the molecular bonds that hold the ice together, allowing the solid to become liquid. This property of water plays a crucial role in various applications, including refrigeration and climate control systems, where heat exchange processes are utilized.

Understanding this value is essential for calculating energy requirements in refrigeration cycles and heating systems, as it directly impacts efficiency and performance.