ryanbrit

As a patriotic British citizen, I am accustomed to waking up and making a cup of tea every morning. I like to drink mine at around 50 degrees Celsius. As I pour my boiling water (100 degrees Celsius) from the kettle into my cup, I always ask the same question... 'Would it reach my optimum drinking temperature (50 degrees Celsius) faster if I pour the milk (2 degrees Celsius) into my cup right after pouring the water, or would it reach it faster if I leave the water until it has cooled a little from the ambient temperature and then add the milk?' I guess it is a question of whether an instant mix of cold liquid into a hot liquid will bring a temperature down quicker than a delayed mix of cold liquid into a slightly cooled liquid, with both starting temperatures at 100 degrees Celsius. I am asking if there is someone who can test this, and let me know if there is a difference in time for the temperature to reach 50 degrees in a controlled environment. I am by no means a scientist, this is simply a wonder I have had every morning for most of my life. Have fun & be safe!