Question

The following table lists the specific heat capacities of select substances: Substance Specific heat capacity [J/(g⋅∘C)] silver 0.235, copper 0.385, iron 0.449, aluminum 0.903, ethanol 2.42, water 4.184, Water (2430 g ), is heated until it just begins to boil.

If the water absorbs 5.07×105 J of heat in the process, what was the initial temperature of the water? Express your answer with the appropriate units.

Answer 1

water is heated until to boil

So final temperature of water = Tf = 100 ⁰C

Mass of sample = m = 2430 g

amount of heat gain = q = 5.07 x 10⁵ J

And Specific heat of water = c = 4.184 g/⁰C

Now

We know the formula

q = m.c.T

So   T = q / (m.c)

putting given values

T =  5.07 x 10⁵ J /(2430 g x 4.184 J/⁰C)

= 49.86 ⁰C

Then

T = Tf - Ti = change in temperature

49.86 ⁰C = 100 ⁰C - Ti

Ti = 100 ⁰C - 49.86 ⁰C

= 50.14 ⁰C

So intial temperature of water = 50.14 ⁰C