Final answer:
The specific heat capacity of water is calculated using the formula Q = mcΔT. Given the energy supplied (Q), the mass of water (m), and temperature change (ΔT), the specific heat capacity is found to be approximately 4.2 J/g°C.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student was asked to calculate the specific heat capacity of water with given data. The formula to calculate specific heat capacity, c, is Q = mcΔT, where Q is the heat energy supplied, m is the mass of the substance, and ΔT is the temperature change.
From the question, we are given that Q = 8400 J, m = 0.5 kg (which is equal to 500 g since 1 kg = 1000 g), and ΔT = 4°C. Plugging these values into the equation, we get:
8400 J = 500 g * c * 4°C
To find the specific heat capacity, c, we rearrange the formula:
c = 8400 J / (500 g * 4°C)
c = 8400 J / 2000 g°C
c = 4.2 J/g°C
Therefore, the specific heat capacity of water is approximately 4.2 J/g°C.