Question

Why is water used as a coolant in motor car radiators?

Answer 1

water is used as a coolant in motor car radiators because water has the highest specific heat capacity compared to all other liquids and it is easily available

the specific heat of water is about 4180 J kg-1 K-1

Answer 2

Water is used as a coolant in motor car radiators because:

• The specific heat capacity of water is very high.
• This means to increase the temperature of water even by a degree celsius, requires very high amounts of heat.
• Motor car radiators get heated up very quickly.
• It is essential to keep the radiators cool to prevent accidents.
• Water is used for this purpose because water can absorb this heat without any increase in its own temperature.