Specific Heat Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the specific heat calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Specific Heat Capacity
specific_heat = heat / (mass * delta_t)Variables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
heat | Heat Energy(J) | 4186 |
mass | Mass(kg) | 1 |
delta_t | Temperature Change(°C) | 1 |
How It Works
Specific Heat Capacity
Specific heat capacity is the energy needed to raise 1 kg of a substance by 1 degree.
Formula
c = Q / (m * DeltaT)
Rearranging Q = mcDeltaT to solve for c. This is useful in calorimetry experiments.
Worked Example
4186 J raises 1 kg of a substance by 1°C.
heat = 4186mass = 1delta_t = 1
- 01c = Q / (m * DeltaT)
- 02c = 4186 / (1 * 1)
- 03c = 4186 J/(kg·°C)
- 04This matches water's specific heat capacity.
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Specific Heat Calculator