Heat Equation:
From: | To: |
The heat calculation formula \( Q = m \times c \times \Delta T \) calculates the amount of heat energy transferred when a substance changes temperature. It's fundamental in thermodynamics and heat transfer calculations.
The calculator uses the heat equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that heat transfer is proportional to the mass of the substance, its specific heat capacity, and the temperature change it undergoes.
Details: Accurate heat calculations are essential for designing heating/cooling systems, understanding thermal processes in engineering, and solving problems in physics and chemistry.
Tips: Enter mass in kilograms, specific heat in J/kg·K, and temperature change in Kelvin. All values must be valid (mass > 0, specific heat > 0).
Q1: What is specific heat capacity?
A: It's the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 kg of a substance by 1 K. Different materials have different specific heat capacities.
Q2: Can I use Celsius instead of Kelvin?
A: For temperature differences (ΔT), Celsius and Kelvin scales are equivalent (1°C change = 1 K change).
Q3: What are typical specific heat values?
A: Water: ~4186 J/kg·K, Aluminum: ~900 J/kg·K, Iron: ~450 J/kg·K, Air: ~1000 J/kg·K.
Q4: What if the temperature decreases?
A: A negative ΔT indicates heat is being released rather than absorbed. The Q value will be negative.
Q5: How does this relate to calorimetry?
A: Calorimetry uses this principle to measure heat transfer in chemical reactions or physical changes.