Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hello,
I’m having a hard time figuring out equation 1 for the “Cold Pack Chemistry: Where does the heat go?” project. I’m not sure how to find out the heat capacity measured in Joules per gram per degree celsius.

Thank you!


q = c m (T2 -T1)


q = energy lost (or gained), measured in joules (J)
c = heat capacity, measured in joules per gram per degree Celsius, J/(g°C)
m = mass of solution, measured in grams (g)
J = joules (J), unit of energy
g = grams (g) of water
°C = degrees Celsius
T1 = starting temperature, in degrees Celsius
T2 = lower temperature after ammonium nitrate has dissolved, in degrees Celsius

Hi FozzieB,

In this experiment, you should know all of the variables in the equation except for the c, which is the heat capacity. Just divide q by m and (T2-T1) to get your heat capacity.

Hope this helps, IlI