Why are we able to sip hot tea or milk faster from a saucer rather than a cup?

When it comes to drinking hot tea or milk, sipping from a saucer is a quicker option than using a cup. This is because the saucer’s larger surface area and superior cooling capabilities play a major role. The design of the saucer allows hot liquid to spread out thinly, exponentially increasing its exposure to the surrounding air. This results in faster heat dissipation and a quicker cooling process. The saucer’s efficient heat distribution helps lower the overall temperature of the liquid, making it drinkable much sooner than if it were confined in a smaller cup. Additionally, the act of sipping from a saucer also allows for smaller, more manageable sips as the liquid is spread out and cools more rapidly.