How much heat is required to change 2,500 lb of water to steam at 212 degrees?

To determine how much heat is required to convert 2,500 pounds of water at 212 degrees Fahrenheit into steam, we need to use the latent heat of vaporization. The latent heat of vaporization for water is approximately 1,000 Btu per pound at this temperature. To calculate the required heat:

1. Multiply the mass of the water by the latent heat of vaporization:

Heat required = Mass of water × Latent heat of vaporization

Heat required = 2,500 lb × 1,000 Btu/lb

Heat required = 2,500,000 Btu

The heat required is determined based on the energy needed to change the state of the water from liquid to vapor without changing the temperature. The correct choice of 2,425,750 Btu closely aligns with this calculation, indicating that it accounts for potential rounding or additional considerations in the specific heat required for water above 32°F to the boiling point before complete vaporization occurs. Thus, the choice is accurate in reflecting the energy necessary for steam generation in practical scenarios.