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Thermal Energy Equation:
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The thermal energy equation (Q = m × c × ΔT) calculates the amount of thermal energy transferred when the temperature of a substance changes. It's a fundamental equation in thermodynamics and heat transfer calculations.
The calculator uses the thermal energy equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation calculates the energy required to change the temperature of a given mass of substance by a specific amount, based on its heat capacity properties.
Details: Accurate thermal energy calculation is crucial for designing heating and cooling systems, understanding energy transfer processes, and solving various engineering and physics problems involving heat exchange.
Tips: Enter mass in kilograms, specific heat capacity in J/kg·°C, and temperature change in °C. All values must be valid (mass > 0, specific heat > 0).
Q1: What is specific heat capacity?
A: Specific heat capacity is the amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of 1 kg of a substance by 1°C. Different materials have different specific heat capacities.
Q2: Can this equation be used for cooling processes?
A: Yes, the equation works for both heating and cooling. For cooling, ΔT will be negative, resulting in negative Q values indicating heat loss.
Q3: What are typical specific heat values?
A: Water has a high specific heat of 4186 J/kg·°C, while metals like iron (449 J/kg·°C) and aluminum (897 J/kg·°C) have lower values.
Q4: Does this equation account for phase changes?
A: No, this equation only calculates sensible heat (temperature change). Latent heat during phase changes requires additional calculations.
Q5: What units should I use?
A: Use consistent SI units: mass in kg, specific heat in J/kg·°C, temperature change in °C, resulting in energy in Joules.