Physics (Experiments)

Question 1

Suggest an experiment to measure the specific heat capacity of water.

Answer 1

Measure approximately 0.15 kg of tap water in the inner container of the calorimeter using a balance.
Hook up the calorimeter to the power supply.
Record the initial temperature of water.
Switch on the water and occasionally stir.
Switch of the temperature when it has risen by about 10*C.
Stir the water abd record the highest temperature.
Record the joulemeter reading.

Question 2

State two possible sources of error for the experiment to measure the specific heat capacity of water.

Answer 2

Some energy is lost to the surrounding air, some energy is absorbed by the cup, the stirrer and the thermometer.

Question 3

State ways to improve the experiment to measure the specific heat capacity of water.

Answer 3

Use a more powerful heater to reduce the heating time.
Replace the glass with a polystyrene cup.
Add a lid to cover the cup.
Add a polystyrene tile under the cup