10 Things That Melt in the Sun
When the sun’s rays beat down on the earth, it’s not just the sand and sea that warm up. Many materials and substances can melt or soften under the sun’s intense heat. Here’s a detailed look at ten such items that can turn from solid to liquid in the blink of an eye.
1. Chocolate
One of the most beloved treats, chocolate, can easily melt in the sun. The melting point of chocolate is around 86-90 degrees Fahrenheit (30-32 degrees Celsius). On a hot day, even a small amount of direct sunlight can cause a bar of chocolate to soften and eventually melt.
2. Plastic
Plastic is a common material that melts when exposed to high temperatures. The melting point of plastic can vary widely depending on the type, but most plastics start to soften around 200-300 degrees Fahrenheit (93-149 degrees Celsius). This is why plastic items can become deformed or melt when left in a hot car or outside on a sunny day.
| Plastic Type | Melting Point (掳F) |
|---|---|
| PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) | 266-280 |
| HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) | 262-314 |
| PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) | 160-180 |
| LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) | 262-300 |
3. Asphalt
Asphalt, the material used in roads and pavements, has a melting point of about 300 degrees Fahrenheit (149 degrees Celsius). On extremely hot days, the heat can cause asphalt to soften and even melt, creating a gooey mess that can be dangerous for drivers and pedestrians.
4. Paint
Paint can also melt in the sun, especially if it’s applied to a surface that absorbs heat. The melting point of paint can vary, but it generally starts to soften around 150-200 degrees Fahrenheit (65-93 degrees Celsius). This can lead to paint peeling or running off the surface.
5. Metal
Metals can melt at a wide range of temperatures, depending on the type. For example, copper melts at about 1,981 degrees Fahrenheit (1,085 degrees Celsius), while gold melts at 1,948 degrees Fahrenheit (1,064 degrees Celsius). On a hot day, metal objects can become hot to the touch and may even start to soften or melt if exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period.
6. Ice Cream
Ice cream is a delicious treat that can quickly melt in the sun. The melting point of ice cream is around 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius), so even a brief exposure to direct sunlight can cause it to become a liquid mess.
7. Candles
Candles are another item that can melt in the sun. The melting point of candle wax varies depending on the type, but it generally ranges from 135-160 degrees Fahrenheit (57-71 degrees Celsius). On a hot day, a candle can melt and drip, creating a sticky and potentially dangerous situation.
8. Glue
Glue can also melt in the sun, especially if it’s applied to a surface that absorbs heat. The melting point of glue can vary, but it generally starts to soften around 100-150 degrees Fahrenheit (38-66 degrees Celsius). This can cause glue to lose its stickiness and become ineffective.
9. Rubber
Rubber is a material that can soften and even melt in the sun. The melting point of rubber varies depending on the type, but it generally ranges from 140-200 degrees Fahrenheit (60-93 degrees Celsius). On a hot day, rubber items can become soft and flexible, which can be a problem for items like tires or rubber bands.
10. Concrete
Concrete, the material used in construction, can also melt in the sun. The melting point of concrete is around 1,400 degrees Fahrenheit (760 degrees Celsius). While this