Earth, the blue planet, is hospitable to life because of its moderate temperature range. More than 70% of the planet is covered with some form of water. Most life forms on Earth are about 60% water. That temperature range is due to the presence of water on Earth and its high specific heat capacity. Specific heat is the amount of energy required to change the temperature of a substance. Water’s high specific heat allows it to absorb large amounts of heat energy. It also means that water releases heat energy very slowly as it cools. Water's high specific heat allows for the moderation of the Earth's climate and helps organisms regulate their body temperature. Compare the following specific heats:
Substance Specific Heat
(J g-1oC- 1)
Nitrogen gas 1.040
Sand 0.290
Water 4.186
Ethanol 2.400
Experimental data recorded in an earth science class illustrates the moderating effects of water on temperature. Imagine that this is a coastal environment. Notice the differences in heating and cooling rates between sand and water:
Suppose 200 J of heat energy was added to 2 grams of each substance in Table 1. Which choice correctly lists the substances from greatest temperature change to least temperature change?

A) Nitrogen gas, sand, water, ethanol
B) Water, ethanol, nitrogen gas, sand
C) Sand, nitrogen gas, ethanol, water
D) Ethanol, water, sand, nitrogen gas