RPA01: Specific heat capacity

Question 1

What is the aim

Answer 1

To determine the specific heat capacity of one or more materials

Question 2

What is step one

Answer 2

Record the mass of the object using a balance

Question 3

Step two

Answer 3

Place a thermometer and immersion heater onto object

Question 4

Step three

Answer 4

Record starting temperature

Question 5

Step four

Answer 5

Wrap object in insulating foam to reduce dissipation of energy to surroundings

Question 6

Step five

Answer 6

Connect a joulemeter to immersion heater

Question 7

Step 6

Answer 7

Time for 30 minutes

Question 8

Step seven

Answer 8

Record the Joules of energy that passed into immersion heater and final temperature of object

Question 9

Step eight

Answer 9

Calculate specific heat capacity using the equation:
c= Change in energy / mass x change in temperature