Specific Heat Capacity (Edexcel GCSE Physics)

Water of mass 0.48 kg undergoes an increase in temperature of 0.7 °C. Calculate the amount of energy transferred to the water during this temperature rise.

The specific heat capacity of water is 4200 J / kg °C.

Answer:

Step 1: Write down the known quantities

• Mass, m = 0.48 kg

• Change in temperature, Δθ = 0.7 °C

• Specific heat capacity, c = 4200 J / kg °C

Step 2: Write down the relevant equation 

ΔQ = mcΔθ

Step 3: Calculate the energy transferred by substituting in the values

ΔQ = (0.48) × (4200) × (0.7) = 1411.2

Step 4: Round the answer to 2 significant figures

ΔQ = 1400 J

This equation will be given on your equation sheet, so don't worry if you cannot remember it, but it is important that you understand how to use it. You will always be given the specific heat capacity of a substance, so you do not need to memorise any values.