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Thermal Energy Formula:
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The thermal energy formula calculates the amount of heat energy transferred when the temperature of a substance changes. It is expressed as Q = m × c × ΔT, where Q is thermal energy in joules, m is mass in kilograms, c is specific heat capacity, and ΔT is temperature change.
The calculator uses the thermal energy formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the amount of heat energy required to change the temperature of a given mass of substance by a certain amount, based on its specific heat capacity.
Details: Accurate thermal energy calculation is crucial for understanding heat transfer processes, designing heating and cooling systems, and analyzing energy requirements in various engineering and scientific applications.
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 capacity > 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.
Q2: What are typical units for thermal energy?
A: Thermal energy is typically measured in joules (J) in the SI system, though calories or BTUs may be used in some contexts.
Q3: Does this formula work for phase changes?
A: No, this formula only applies to temperature changes without phase transitions. For phase changes, the formula Q = m × L is used, where L is latent heat.
Q4: Can negative values be used for temperature change?
A: Yes, negative ΔT values indicate cooling, and the resulting negative Q value represents heat loss.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation assumes constant specific heat capacity and no phase changes, which is generally accurate for small temperature ranges.