Final answer:
The specific heat capacity of the substance is calculated using the formula q = mc∆T, with the given heat q, mass m, and temperature change ∆T. After substituting the values into the formula, the specific heat capacity is found to be approximately 0.230 J/g°C. This value can be compared to a reference table to identify the substance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The specific heat capacity of a substance is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 gram of the substance by 1 degree Celsius. To calculate the specific heat capacity (c) of the mysterious substance, we use the formula q = mc∆T, where q is the heat in joules, m is the mass in grams, and ∆T is the change in temperature in degrees Celsius.
From the given information, we have m = 9.0 g, the change in temperature ∆T is 85.0°C - 23.0°C = 62.0°C, and q = 127 J. By rearranging the formula to solve for c, c = q / (m∆T), and substituting the known values, we find that the specific heat capacity is c = 127 J / (9.0 g × 62.0°C).
Thus, the specific heat capacity of the mysterious substance is approximately 0.230 J/g°C. To identify the substance, one would compare this calculated specific heat capacity with values in a reference table such as Table 9.1, given that such a table is available, which is implied by the data provided.