The "Disease" That Struck Medieval Church Organs

The video explores the phenomenon of tin pest, which affected church organs by making them brittle and causing them to fall apart. This is due to tin's ability to exist in two forms: white tin, which is strong and shiny, and gray tin, which is dull and brittle. The transformation between these forms depends on temperature, with a critical point around -30 degrees Celsius. The process is slow and requires specific conditions to occur. Understanding the chemistry behind tin pest has led to prevention methods, such as adding other metals to stabilize tin.

What was the initial belief about the cause of tin pest in church organs?

• A chemical reaction

• A disease

• The work of the devil

• A structural flaw

What is the main difference between white tin and gray tin?

• Their color and strength

• Their ability to conduct electricity

• Their melting points

• Their magnetic properties

At what temperature does tin start transforming from white to gray?

• Above 0 degrees Celsius

• Below 13.2 degrees Celsius

• Above 13.2 degrees Celsius

• Below 0 degrees Celsius

Why does the transformation from white tin to gray tin take a long time?

• Because the atoms are not tightly packed

• Because both phases are liquid

• Because the temperature never drops enough

• Because both phases are solid

How can the transformation of tin be prevented in modern organ pipes?

• By adding small amounts of other metals

• By using pure tin

• By coating the pipes with plastic

• By keeping the temperature constant