Why does a cold drink from the fridge quickly warms up if it is left in sun?

A cold drink from the fridge quickly warms up if it is left in the sun due to the transfer of thermal energy from the sun to the drink. Here are some reasons why this happens:

1. Absorption of Solar Radiation: The sun emits energy in the form of electromagnetic waves, including visible light and infrared radiation. When the cold drink is exposed to sunlight, the surface of the drink absorbs the solar radiation, converting it into heat energy.

2. Conduction and Convection: The absorbed heat energy increases the temperature of the outer layer of the drink. This causes a difference in temperature between the warm outer layer and the colder inner layers of the drink. As a result, heat is transferred from the outer layer to the inner layers through conduction (transfer of heat energy by direct contact) and convection (transfer of heat energy by the movement of a fluid).

3. Heating of the Container: The container of the cold drink, such as a glass or plastic bottle, also absorbs solar radiation and transfers heat to the drink inside. The material and color of the container can influence the rate of heat transfer. Dark-colored containers absorb more heat, leading to faster warming of the drink.

4. Air Temperature and Wind: The ambient air temperature and wind also affect the rate of warming. If the air is already warm, it contributes to the warming of the drink. Wind can accelerate the process by carrying away the cool air surrounding the drink and replacing it with warmer air.

5. Insulation Properties of the Container: The insulation properties of the drink container play a role in slowing down the warming process. Containers made of materials with low thermal conductivity, such as insulated stainless steel bottles, can provide some resistance to heat transfer and keep the drink cool for a longer time.

To summarize, a cold drink from the fridge warms up quickly when left in the sun due to the absorption of solar radiation, conduction and convection of heat within the drink, the heating of the container, and the influence of ambient air temperature and wind.