Behind the Mpemba paradox

Temperature (Austin). 2015 Apr 14;2(1):38-9. doi: 10.4161/23328940.2014.974441. eCollection 2015 Jan-Mar.

Abstract

Mpemba paradox results from hydrogen-bond anomalous relaxation. Heating stretches the O:H nonbond and shortens the H-O bond via Coulomb coupling; cooling reverses this process to emit heat at a rate depending on its initial storage. Skin ultra-low mass density raises the thermal diffusivity and favors outward heat flow from the liquid.

Keywords: biomolecules; convention; freezing; hydrogen bond; thermal diffusivity.