Final answer:
Calorimeter A, with the highest heat capacity of 111.382 Cal, absorbed the most heat. The higher the heat capacity, the more heat a calorimeter can absorb without a significant temperature change.
option a is the correct
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question asks which of the three given calorimeters absorbed the most heat. To identify which calorimeter absorbed the most heat, we should understand what the heat capacity (Ccal) value indicates. The heat capacity is the amount of heat required to raise the calorimeter's temperature by one degree Celsius. Thus, the higher the heat capacity, the more heat it can absorb without undergoing a large increase in temperature.
According to the heats capacity provided:
- Calorimeter A (styrofoam cup): 111.382 Cal
- Calorimeter B (glass beaker): 44.0827 Cal
- Calorimeter C (unknown cup): 72.9326 Cal
Calorimeter A, with the highest heat capacity, would absorb the most heat. This is because it can take in more heat without a significant change in its temperature compared to the other calorimeters that have lower heat capacities.
It is worth noting that in calorimetry, scientists often aim for calorimeters with high insulating capabilities to ensure that the heat measured is an accurate reflection of the reaction or process being studied. A poorly insulated calorimeter would allow more heat to transfer to the surroundings, thus affecting the readings and leading to less accurate results. A calorimeter with a high heat capacity provides a more stable measurement environment.