Final answer:
To solve for Q*, identify the unknowns, list the knowns, solve the appropriate physics equation, substitute the known quantities with units, calculate the numerical solution including units, and finally, check if the answer makes sense.
Step-by-step explanation:
To solve directly for Q*, which is an unknown quantity in physics problems, such as in calorimetry or optics, follow these steps:
- Identify the unknowns: Define the quantity Q* that needs to be determined based on the context of the problem.
- Identify the knowns: List all the given quantities or variables that are provided in the question.
- Solve the appropriate equation: Use physics formulas to express Q* in terms of the other known quantities. For example, in calorimetry, the equation might be Q = mcΔT, where m is mass, c is specific heat, and ΔT is the temperature change.
- Substitute knowns: Replace the known quantities in the equation with their numerical values and corresponding units.
- Obtain numerical solutions: Calculate the value of Q* and ensure to include proper units with the numerical solution.
- Check the answer: Verify if the solution makes sense by considering physical principles and that the calculated temperatures do not imply an unaccounted phase change.