Specific Heat Capacity Required Practical

A series of vocabulary-style flashcards covering the steps, variables, equipment, and improvements for the Specific Heat Capacity (SHC) required practical.

Step 1 of the SHC practical

Measure the mass of the metal block using a balance.

Step 2 of the SHC practical

Insert the thermometer and electrical heater into the holes of the metal block.

Step 3 of the SHC practical

Record the starting temperature of the block.

Step 4 of the SHC practical

Connect the heater to the power supply, switch it on and start the stopwatch.

Step 5 of the SHC practical

Record the temperature every minute for 10 minutes.

Step 6 of the SHC practical

Calculate the energy supplied.

Step 7 of the SHC practical

Calculate the specific heat capacity.

Independent variable

Type of material tested.

Dependent variable

Temperature change.

Control variables

Voltage supplied, current supplied, mass of the material, and time intervals between readings.

Balance

Used to measure the mass of the block.

Thermometer

Used to measure temperature change.

Electric heater

Used to transfer energy to the block.

Power supply

Used to provide electrical energy to the heater.

Joulemeter

Used to measure energy supplied.

Ammeter and voltmeter

Used to calculate power and energy supplied.

Stopwatch

Used to measure heating time.

Insulation

Used to reduce heat loss to the surroundings.

Repeat improvement

Repeat with different materials and calculate a mean.

Random error

Temperature readings may fluctuate.

Random error reduction

Take readings at consistent time intervals.

Sudden jump in temperature

May indicate poor contact between the heater and the block.

Validity improvement

Insulate the block to minimise energy loss.

Equipment improvement

Use a data logger for more precise temperature readings.