The figure below shows the apparatus used to measure the specific heat capacity of a metal. The electric heater is switched on and supplies 17 000 of thermal energy (heat) to the block of metal. The temperature of the metal rises from 16 °C to 38 °C. The mass of the block of metal is 850 g. No energy is lost from the metal. Calculate the specific heat capacity of the metal.

0.909 J/gºC.

Explanation:

From the question given above, the following data were obtained:

Heat (Q) = 17000 J

Initial temperature (T₁) = 16 °C

Final temperature (T₂) = 38 °C

Mass (M) = 850 g

Specific heat capacity (C) =?

Next, we shall determine the change in the temperature of the metal. This can be obtained as follow:

Initial temperature (T₁) = 16 °C

Final temperature (T₂) = 38 °C

Change in temperature (ΔT)

ΔT = T₂ – T₁

ΔT = 38 – 16

ΔT = 22 °C

Finally, we shall determine the specific heat capacity of the metal. This can be obtained as follow:

Heat (Q) = 17000 J

Change in temperature (ΔT) = 22 °C

Mass (M) = 850 g

Specific heat capacity (C) =?

Q = MCΔT

17000 = 850 × C × 22

17000 = 18700 × C

Divide both side by 18700

C = 17000 / 18700

C = 0.909 J/gºC

Therefore, the specific heat capacity of the metal is 0.909 J/gºC.

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