How do ice cubes cool a drink?

Energy transfer is the secret ingredient that makes iced tea a particularly refreshing drink on a hot day.

By: Matthew Koss, College of the Holy Cross, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: August 24, 2026

Words: 1,293

Last Updated: 3 weeks, 3 days ago

By Matthew Koss, College of the Holy Cross

Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com.

How do ice cubes cool a drink? – Helen, age 12, Boston, Massachusetts

I like to make my own iced tea. First, I steep about a quart of terrifically strong hot tea and pour it into a pitcher …

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