Final answer:
The specific heat of the metal is approximately 0.803 J/g°C. To predict the identity of the metal, compare the calculated specific heat to known values for different metals.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the specific heat of the metal, we can use the formula Q = mcΔT, where Q is the heat absorbed or released, m is the mass of the metal, c is the specific heat of the metal, and ΔT is the change in temperature. Rearranging the formula to solve for c, we get c = Q / (m * ΔT). Plugging in the known values, c = (1.43 kJ) / (217 g * (39.1 °C - 24.5 °C)).
Calculating this gives us a specific heat of approximately 0.803 J/g°C. To predict the identity of the metal, we can compare the calculated specific heat to known values for different metals until we find a match.