Question

When 318 cal of energy is added to 279g of copper at 14.8°C, the temperature increases to

27.2°C. What is the specific heat of copper?

Answer 1

0.385J/g°C

Step-by-step explanation:

Using the following formula;

Q = m. c. ∆T

Where;

Q = amount of heat (joules)

m = mass of substance (g)

c = specific heat capacity (J/g°C)

∆T = change in temperature (°C)

According to the provided information in this question;

Q = 318 cal

1 calorie = 4.184J

318 cal = 318 × 4.184 = 1330.512J

m = 279g

∆T = 27.2°C - 14.8°C = 12.4°C

Hence, using Q = m. c. ∆T

c = Q ÷ (m. ∆T)

c = 1330.512 ÷ (279 × 12.4)

c = 1330.512 ÷ 3459.6

c = 0.385

Therefore, the specific heat of copper is 0.385J/g°C