Calorimetry & Specific Heat — A/L Physics

What must I remember about Calorimetry & Specific Heat?

• Heat Capacity & Specific Heat Capacity: Heat Capacity C = Q / ΔT (J/K); Specific Heat Capacity c = Q / (m ΔT) (J·kg⁻¹·K⁻¹); Heat absorbed/released Q = m c ΔT.
• Principle of Calorimetry (Method of Mixtures): In an isolated thermally insulated system: Heat Lost by hotter bodies = Heat Gained by cooler bodies: ∑ (m_h c_h ΔT_loss) = ∑ (m_c c_c ΔT_gain).
• Water Equivalent of Calorimeter: Mass of pure water that requires the same amount of heat as the calorimeter apparatus to raise its temperature by 1 K: W = (m_cal * c_cal) / c_water.
• Cooling Corrections: Heat lost to surroundings during warming-up period in calorimetry is corrected using Newton's Law of Cooling or radiation cooling curves.

Test yourself (1 minute)

1. High Specific Heat of Water

   Water has an exceptionally high specific heat capacity (c_water ≈ 4186 J·kg⁻¹·K⁻¹); acts as an excellent coolant and thermal buffer, regulating maritime climate and biological body temperature.

2. Experimental Precautions in Calorimetry

   Highly polished calorimeter surface (minimizes radiation loss), lid with stirrer (prevents convection and evaporation, ensures uniform temperature), lagging/insulation (minimizes conduction).

3. Electrical Method for Specific Heat

   Energy supplied by electrical heater E = V * I * t = (m c + C_cal)(T_final - T_initial).

Practise Calorimetry & Specific Heat questions today

Source: NIE G.C.E. (A/L) Physics Resource Book - Unit 4: Thermal Physics

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Where does Calorimetry & Specific Heat fit in the syllabus?

Unit 4.4 · Year 1 · Term 2