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2.2.2a Internal energy and temperature

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Question 30

A student in a laboratory uses an electrical immersion heater and a thermometer inserted into a copper block to determine its specific heat capacity.

The readings obtained are as follows:

  • mass of copper block = 1.20 kg1.20\text{ kg}1.20 kg
  • initial temperature of block = 18.5∘C18.5^\circ\text{C}18.5∘C
  • final temperature of block = 39.5∘C39.5^\circ\text{C}39.5∘C
  • electrical energy supplied = 9800 J9800\text{ J}9800 J
a.

Define specific heat capacity.

[1]
b.

Use the readings above to calculate the specific heat capacity of copper. State the equation you use.

[3]
c.

In the interest of scientific rigor, the student repeats the experiment shortly after, supplying the same amount of electrical energy (9800 J9800\text{ J}9800 J). This time, the temperature readings are:

  • initial temperature of block = 39.2∘C39.2^\circ\text{C}39.2∘C
  • final temperature of block = 56.2∘C56.2^\circ\text{C}56.2∘C

Calculate a second value for the specific heat capacity of copper using these readings.

[2]
d.

Suggest why the second value for the specific heat capacity is greater than the first, given that the student made no mistakes in taking the readings.

[2]
e.

Suggest two modifications to the setup or procedure to improve the accuracy of the result.

[2]
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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