Practical: investigate the specific heat capacity of a substance
3 marks · EasyA group of students wants to determine the specific heat capacity of a 0.3 kg sample of metal, using the apparatus shown.
State the equation used to calculate the specific heat capacity (c) of the metal.
List two measurements (other than mass) that the students must record during the experiment.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
Show answer
(a) c = ΔQ / (m × Δθ)
(b) Any two of: voltage, current, time, initial and final temperatures.
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Writes correct formula for specific heat capacity: c = ΔQ / (m × Δθ)
B2 (b) · 1 mark · Identifies one of: voltage, current, time, temperature change
B3 (b) · 1 mark · Identifies a second correct measurement (not a repeat of the first)
Worked solution
a) The equation is c = ΔQ / (m × Δθ) b) The students must record: - the voltage supplied to the heater, - the current flowing through the heater, - the time the heater is on, and - the initial and final temperatures of the metal.