Final answer:
The specific heat of aluminum, given the 150g piece heated from 20°C to 100°C and absorbing 12,000 joules, is 1,000 J/kg°C.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the specific heat of aluminum, we use the heat transfer equation Q = mcΔT, which relates the amount of heat absorbed (Q) to the mass (m), specific heat (c), and change in temperature (ΔT). The mass of the aluminum (m) is given as 150 grams.
Which we need to convert into kilograms to align with the specific heat unit (J/kg°C), making it 0.150 kg. The change in temperature (ΔT) is the final temperature (100°C) minus the initial temperature (20°C), which is an increase of 80°C. The heat absorbed (Q) is given as 12,000 joules.
To solve for the specific heat (c), we rearrange the equation: c = Q/(mΔT). Calculating the specific heat: Plug in the known values: c = 12,000 J/(0.150 kg × 80°C). Perform the calculation: c = 12,000 J/(12 kg°C) = 1,000 J/kg°C. Thus, the specific heat of aluminum in this scenario is 1,000 J/kg°C.