Specific Heat capacity - PRACTICAL

• You can determine the specific heat capacity of water using an electric heater
• Aim - to determine the specific heat capacity of water and to describe the behaviour of ice when melting.
• Method:

  1. Set up the apparatus like shown in the diagram below
  2. Measure the mass of the water using an electric balance
  3. Record the potential difference of the power supply and the current through the heater
  4. Take temperature readings every 30 seconds at a time until the water reaches desired temperature.
  5. Record the initial and final temperatures of the water and find the change in temperature.

  
• Conclusion - The specific heat capacity of water is the energy required to change 1KG of water by 1℃ is about 4200 J / Kg ℃
• Having insulation around the beaker will transfer less energy to the surroundings and give a more accurate value for the specific heat capacity of water.