Heat Transfer Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the heat transfer calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Heat Energy
heat = mass * specific_heat * delta_tHeat Energy (kJ)
heat_kj = mass * specific_heat * delta_t / 1000Variables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
mass | Mass(kg) | 1 |
specific_heat | Specific Heat Capacity(J/(kg·°C)) | 4186 |
delta_t | Temperature Change(°C) | 50 |
How It Works
Heat Transfer (Q = mcDeltaT)
The heat energy needed to change the temperature of a substance depends on its mass, specific heat capacity, and temperature change.
Formula
Q = m * c * DeltaT
where m is mass (kg), c is specific heat capacity (J/(kg·°C)), and DeltaT is the temperature change.
Worked Example
Heating 1 kg of water from 20°C to 70°C (DeltaT = 50°C).
- 01Q = m * c * DeltaT
- 02Q = 1 * 4186 * 50
- 03Q = 209,300 J
- 04Q = 209.3 kJ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is specific heat capacity?
The amount of energy needed to raise 1 kg of a substance by 1°C. Water has one of the highest specific heats at 4186 J/(kg·°C).
Why does water take so long to heat up?
Water has a very high specific heat capacity, meaning it absorbs a large amount of energy per degree of temperature change.
Does this formula work for phase changes?
No. During a phase change (melting, boiling), temperature stays constant. Use heat of fusion or vaporization formulas instead.
Learn More
Guide
Thermodynamics Basics: A Complete Guide
Learn the fundamentals of thermodynamics including the four laws, heat transfer, entropy, enthalpy, and the Carnot cycle. Practical explanations with real-world examples.
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Heat Transfer Calculator