Measuring specific heat capacity
I can measure the specific heat capacity of water and of a metal sample.
Measuring specific heat capacity
I can measure the specific heat capacity of water and of a metal sample.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- A joulemeter measures a total amount of energy transferred to an electric circuit.
- At equilibrium, a metal block is at the same temperature as the water bath it is in.
- Specific heat capacity, c, is measured in joules per kilogram per degree Celsius.
Common misconception
A systematic error can be spotted by taking repeat readings.
Discuss why the heating of the beaker when measuring specific heat capacity of water will always increase energy measured by the same proportion.
Keywords
Specific heat capacity - The change in internal energy when the temperature of 1 kg of the material changes by 1°C.
Immersion heater - An electrical heating element which can be submerged in liquid to heat it.
Joulemeter - A meter which measures the energy transferred by an electric current.
Conservation of energy - A principle which states that the total amount of energy is the same before and after any transfer.
Equipment
Beaker, immersion heater, lid, thermometer, joulemeter, power supply, balance, timer, water bath (or way of boiling water), small metal samples, polystyrene cups, tongs.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
change in energy of 1 kg of a material when it is heated by 1°C
an electrical heater placed into a liquid to heat it
measures the energy transferred by an electric current
the total amount of energy does not change during any interaction