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A BTU is the amount of energy needed to heat how many pounds of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit?

  1. Ounce

  2. Pound

  3. Kilogram

  4. Milligram

The correct answer is: Pound

The correct answer is based on the definition of a BTU, or British Thermal Unit. A BTU is specifically defined as the amount of energy required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. This definition is fundamental in thermodynamics and is widely used in fields such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) to quantify energy transfer. The other answer choices represent units of mass that are not equivalent to the pound, such as ounces, kilograms, and milligrams. Since a BTU is directly tied to the heating of one pound of water, those other units do not align with the standard definition or measurement of a BTU. Understanding this definition is crucial for anyone studying boiler operations or other heating systems, as it helps in calculating energy requirements and efficiency.