The age-old question that has puzzled many of us: why do you put a coin in the freezer? It’s a practice that has been passed down through generations, with many of us doing it without even thinking about it. But have you ever stopped to consider the reasoning behind this peculiar habit? In this article, we’ll delve into the history, science, and practicality of putting a coin in the freezer, and explore the various reasons why it’s become a staple in many households.
A Brief History of Putting a Coin in the Freezer
The practice of putting a coin in the freezer dates back to the early 20th century, when refrigerators were first becoming a staple in many homes. In those days, refrigerators were much simpler and less efficient than the ones we have today, and they often had a tendency to absorb moisture from the air. This moisture would condense on the walls and shelves of the fridge, causing frost to form.
To combat this problem, people began placing coins in the freezer to absorb the excess moisture. The coins would freeze and expand, helping to absorb the moisture and prevent frost from forming. This simple trick was effective and became a common practice in many households.
The Science Behind Putting a Coin in the Freezer
So, why does putting a coin in the freezer actually work? The answer lies in the science of condensation. When warm, moist air comes into contact with a cold surface, the water vapor in the air condenses onto the surface, forming dew or frost. In the case of a refrigerator, the cold air inside the fridge causes the moisture in the air to condense onto the walls and shelves, forming frost.
The coin in the freezer works by absorbing the excess moisture in the air. When the coin is placed in the freezer, it freezes and expands, creating a surface that is cooler than the surrounding air. As the warm, moist air comes into contact with the coin, the water vapor in the air condenses onto the coin, rather than the walls and shelves of the fridge. This helps to reduce the amount of moisture in the air, preventing frost from forming.
Other Benefits of Putting a Coin in the Freezer
While putting a coin in the freezer may seem like a simple and old-fashioned solution to a common problem, it has several other benefits as well. For one, it can help to reduce the amount of dust and debris that accumulates on the walls and shelves of the fridge. By absorbing the excess moisture in the air, the coin helps to keep the fridge cleaner and more hygienic.
Additionally, putting a coin in the freezer can help to reduce the amount of odors that accumulate in the fridge. When food is stored in the fridge, it can release volatile compounds that can linger in the air and cause unpleasant odors. By absorbing the excess moisture in the air, the coin helps to reduce the amount of these compounds, keeping the fridge smelling fresher for longer.
Modern Refrigerators and the Coin in the Freezer
While putting a coin in the freezer may have been a necessary practice in the past, it’s not as necessary today. Modern refrigerators are designed to be more efficient and to reduce the amount of moisture in the air. Many modern fridges also have features such as automatic defrosting and moisture-absorbing filters that help to reduce the amount of moisture in the air.
Despite this, many people still choose to put a coin in the freezer as a precautionary measure. It’s a simple and inexpensive way to help keep the fridge clean and hygienic, and it can be especially useful in older fridges that may not have the same level of moisture-absorbing technology as newer models.
Conclusion
Putting a coin in the freezer may seem like a simple and old-fashioned solution to a common problem, but it has a rich history and several practical benefits. By understanding the science behind why it works, and the various benefits it provides, we can appreciate the value of this simple trick. Whether you’re using it to combat frost, reduce dust and debris, or simply to keep your fridge smelling fresher, putting a coin in the freezer is a practice that’s worth considering.
Recap and Key Points
Here’s a recap of the key points discussed in this article:
- The practice of putting a coin in the freezer dates back to the early 20th century, when refrigerators were first becoming a staple in many homes.
- The coin absorbs excess moisture in the air, reducing the amount of moisture that condenses on the walls and shelves of the fridge.
- The coin helps to reduce the amount of dust and debris that accumulates on the walls and shelves of the fridge.
- The coin can help to reduce the amount of odors that accumulate in the fridge.
- While putting a coin in the freezer may not be necessary in modern refrigerators, it can still be a useful practice in older fridges or as a precautionary measure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do people put a coin in the freezer?
A: People put a coin in the freezer to absorb excess moisture in the air, which helps to reduce the amount of frost that forms on the walls and shelves of the fridge.
Q: How does the coin absorb moisture?
A: The coin absorbs moisture by freezing and expanding, creating a surface that is cooler than the surrounding air. As the warm, moist air comes into contact with the coin, the water vapor in the air condenses onto the coin, rather than the walls and shelves of the fridge.
Q: Is putting a coin in the freezer necessary in modern refrigerators?
A: While putting a coin in the freezer may not be necessary in modern refrigerators, it can still be a useful practice in older fridges or as a precautionary measure.
Q: Can I use other objects instead of a coin?
A: Yes, you can use other objects instead of a coin, such as a metal washer or a small piece of metal. However, coins are the most common and effective option.
Q: How often should I replace the coin?
A: You should replace the coin every 6-12 months, or whenever it becomes rusty or corroded.