Senior Secondary · 11-12 · Chemistry
What is specific heat capacity?
The amount of heat energy needed to raise the temperature of 1 gram of a substance by 1°C
What is the formula for heat energy (q) in terms of mass, specific heat, and temperature change?
q = mcΔT (mass × specific heat capacity × change in temperature)
Why does water have a relatively high specific heat capacity compared to metals?
Its molecular structure (hydrogen bonding) requires more energy to change its temperature, which is why large bodies of water resist rapid temperature changes
What does ΔT represent in the heat energy formula q = mcΔT?
The change in temperature (final temperature minus initial temperature)
What SI unit is heat energy typically measured in?
Joules (J)
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