1. What is Heat Gained (Q = mcΔT)?

Definition: This equation calculates the thermal energy transferred to a substance when its temperature changes.

Purpose: It helps in thermodynamics calculations for heating systems, material science, and energy efficiency studies.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Heat gained (Joules)
• \( m \) — Mass of the substance (kg)
• \( c \) — Specific heat capacity (J/kg·K)
• \( \Delta T \) — Temperature change (Kelvin)

Explanation: The formula shows that heat gained is proportional to both the mass of the material and the temperature change it undergoes.

3. Importance of Heat Calculation

Details: Accurate heat calculations are essential for designing heating systems, understanding material properties, and energy conservation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kg, specific heat capacity (default 4186 J/kg·K for water), and temperature change in Kelvin. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is specific heat capacity?
A: It's the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 kg of a substance by 1 K.

Q2: Why use Kelvin for temperature change?
A: A change of 1°C equals 1K, but Kelvin is the SI unit for thermodynamic temperature.

Q3: What's the specific heat of common materials?
A: Water=4186 J/kg·K, Aluminum=900 J/kg·K, Iron=450 J/kg·K, Copper=385 J/kg·K.

Q4: Can this calculate heat loss?
A: Yes, just use a negative temperature change (cooling instead of heating).

Q5: How to convert to calories?
A: 1 calorie = 4.184 Joules. Divide the result by 4.184 for calories.