Question 1: Define specific heat capacity and explain its role in heat transfer.

Answer: Specific heat capacity is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 kilogram of a substance by 1 degree Celsius. It determines how much heat a material can absorb without a large temperature increase.

Question 2: Why do different materials have different specific heat capacities?

Answer: Different materials have varying atomic structures and bonding, which affect how much energy is needed to change their temperature, resulting in different specific heat capacities.

Question 1: A 2 kg block of aluminium is heated from 20°C to 80°C. If the specific heat capacity of aluminium is 900 J/(kg·°C), how much heat energy is required?

Answer: Q = 2 kg × 900 J/(kg·°C) × (80°C - 20°C) = 2 × 900 × 60 = 108,000 J

Question 2: A copper rod of mass 0.5 kg absorbs 1500 J of heat energy. If its temperature increases by 10°C, what is its specific heat capacity?

Answer: c = Q / (m × ΔT) = 1500 J / (0.5 kg × 10°C) = 1500 / 5 = 300 J/(kg·°C)

Question 1: Describe a simple experiment to measure the specific heat capacity of a metal block. Include the variables you would control and measure, as well as safety precautions.

Answer: To measure specific heat capacity, heat the metal block using a controlled heat source while measuring its initial and final temperature with a thermometer. Control variables include the mass of the block, heat source power, and ambient temperature. Measure the heat energy supplied using the power and time. Ensure safety by handling hot equipment with tongs, avoiding contact with hot surfaces, and working in a safe environment.

Question 1: A scientist heats two identical metal blocks, one aluminium and one copper. Both are heated from 20°C to 60°C. The aluminium block absorbs 7200 J of heat, while the copper absorbs 12000 J. Explain which material has a higher specific heat capacity and justify your answer.

Answer: The aluminium block has a higher specific heat capacity because it absorbs less heat (7200 J) than copper (12000 J) for the same temperature increase, indicating it requires more energy per unit mass and temperature change.

Question 1: Explain how the knowledge of specific heat capacity is important in designing cooling systems for electronic devices.

Answer: Understanding specific heat capacity helps engineers select materials that absorb and dissipate heat efficiently, preventing overheating. Materials with high heat capacity can store more heat, aiding in effective cooling and maintaining device performance.