What would cause a bag of chocolate chips cookies to melt in the sun?

Radiant heat energy: Radiant heat energy is electromagnetic radiation emitted from the sun. When this heat energy comes into contact with the bag of chocolate chip cookies, it causes the material of the bag and, eventually, the cookies to heat up and reach a melting temperature.

Sunlight consists of various types of electromagnetic radiation, including infrared radiation, visible light, and ultraviolet radiation. The wavelengths associated with infrared radiation have lower energy than visible light but higher energy than microwaves.

Infrared radiation: The vast majority of the sun's radiating power is emitted as infrared radiation. When this infrared radiation strikes the surface of the chocolate chip cookie bag or the cookies inside, it causes the molecules in these materials to vibrate and generate heat. This heat energy increases the internal temperature of the bag and the cookies and eventually leads to melting.

However, it's important to note that the rate of melting will depend on several factors, such as:

- The intensity of sunlight (directly proportional to melting speed).

- The duration of sunlight exposure (longer exposure means more heat absorption).

- The material of the bag (some materials can absorb and transfer heat more quickly).

- The color and surface characteristics of the bag and cookies (dark colors and rough surfaces absorb heat faster).

- The surrounding temperature and air circulation.

To prevent the bag of chocolate chip cookies from melting in the sun, it's recommended to store it in a cool and shaded place, away from direct sunlight. If refrigerating the cookies is not an option, consider placing them in an insulated bag or cooler to mitigate heat exposure during short periods.