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2.2.2a Internal energy and temperature

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Question 46
a.

State what is meant by specific heat capacity.

[1]
b.

Water has a very high specific heat capacity. Suggest why this is an advantage when using water in central heating systems (radiators).

[2]
c.

In an experiment to measure the specific heat capacity of a metal block, the block is heated in boiling water at 100.0∘C100.0^\circ\text{C}100.0∘C until it has reached the temperature of the boiling water. It is then transferred rapidly to some water in a well-insulated cup. A sensitive thermometer is used to measure the initial and final temperatures of the water in the cup.

Given:

  • specific heat capacity of water = 4200 J/(kg K)4200\text{ J}/(\text{kg K})4200 J/(kg K)
  • mass of metal block = 0.080 kg0.080\text{ kg}0.080 kg
  • mass of water in cup = 0.200 kg0.200\text{ kg}0.200 kg
  • initial temperature of water in cup = 22.0∘C22.0^\circ\text{C}22.0∘C
  • final temperature of water in cup = 25.5∘C25.5^\circ\text{C}25.5∘C

Calculate the temperature rise of the water in the cup and the temperature fall of the metal block.

[2]
d.

Calculate the thermal energy gained by the water in the cup. State the equation that you use.

[2]
e.

Assume that only the water gained thermal energy from the metal block. Calculate the specific heat capacity of the metal. Give your answer to 3 significant figures.

[3]
f.

Suggest one reason why the experiment might not have yielded the correct standard value for the specific heat capacity of the metal.

[1]
Markscheme

2.2.2a Internal energy and temperature Questions

  1. IGCSE
  2. /Physics
  3. /2.2.2a Internal energy and temperature

119 exam-style questions on CIE IGCSE Physics 2.2.2a Internal energy and temperature. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.

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