Here's one for you math/physics types. This is a question I've wondered about for a while now, but haven't had any luck figuring out the answer.
Problem: You've got 12 beer (cans, or bottles, you choose), and you want to put them in the 'fridge and get them out when they're cold. You don't want to leave them in any longer than you possibly have to, so you want to know:
"at which point are the beers (beer, for the noncanadians) the coldest they're going to get in the refrigerator?"
Some obvious items to be specified:
1. starting temp of beer in question
2. cans or bottles ( i hear cans chill faster )
3. type/size/power of refrigerator, and coolness setting
4. the rate of heat loss of beer (similar to that of water?)
So, assume what you will. Personally, i'd assume the beer at room temp (22c/72F), assume a standard fridge with other food in it already (not a big empty fridge), and a setting that will bring food to about 4C or 39F.
You can also assume one can/bottle if it makes it any easier (i.e. no co-chilling going on).
edit: It should be clear that this is not a "how to you get beer the coldest, fastest" question.
Let's hear your ideas, folks!
