Question

The temperature of a 15.4 g sample of a metal rises 6.75 °C when 40.0 J of energy is applied

to it. What is the identity of the metal?
O copper (specific heat = 24.5 J/mol *C)
silver (specific heat = 25.0 J/mol °C)
aluminum (specific heat = 24.3 J/mol °C)
O lead (specific heat = 26.5 J/mol °C)
O iron (specific heat = 25.2 J/mol °C)

Answer 1

To find the identity of the metal, we can use the formula q = mcΔT and compare the specific heat capacity values for different metals. The closest value to the calculated specific heat capacity is that of lead.

Step-by-step explanation:

To find the identity of the metal, we need to use the formula: q = mcΔT, where q is the heat energy absorbed or released, m is the mass of the metal, c is the specific heat capacity of the metal, and ΔT is the change in temperature.

Plugging in the given values, we get: 40.0 J = (15.4 g) * (c) * (6.75 °C).

Rearranging the equation, we find that c = (40.0 J) / (15.4 g) / (6.75 °C). Calculating this value, we find that c ≈ 0.392 J/g °C.

Comparing this value to the specific heat capacities given for each metal, we find that the closest value is the specific heat capacity for lead which is 26.5 J/mol °C.

Learn more about Identifying the metal based on its specific heat capacity