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2.2 Thermal properties and temperature

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Question 68

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 Thermal properties and temperature Questions

  1. IGCSE
  2. /Physics
  3. /2.2 Thermal properties and temperature

528 exam-style questions on CIE IGCSE Physics 2.2 Thermal properties and temperature, covering 2.2.1 Thermal expansion of solids, liquids and gases, 2.2.2a Internal energy and temperature, 2.2.2b Specific heat capacity, 2.2.3a Melting, boiling, condensation and solidification, 2.2.3b Evaporation, and 2.2.3c Cooling by evaporation. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.

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