Need help with simple calorimetry problem

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    Calorimetry
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a calorimetry problem involving the dissolution of calcium chloride (CaCl2) in water, focusing on calculating the final temperature of the solution. Participants explore the heat transfer involved in the reaction and the specific heat capacities of the substances involved.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the initial problem and their approach, suggesting that the heat of reaction (q(rxn)) equals the sum of the heat absorbed by water and the heat associated with the dissolution of CaCl2.
  • Another participant asserts that the heat capacity of the solution can be approximated as that of pure water, which is 4.18 J/(°C*g).
  • A participant questions the validity of using the same heat capacity for both water and CaCl2, expressing concern that it leads to a trivial solution where the final temperature remains at 25.0°C.
  • Another participant reiterates the initial equation but points out that the enthalpy change is given in kJ/mole of reaction, prompting a discussion on how to convert this to kJ for the calculations.
  • One participant corrects a previous claim, stating that the specific heat capacity of 4.184 J/(°C*g) applies specifically to water and not to the entire system.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the appropriate heat capacities to use in the calculations, and there is no consensus on how to handle the heat capacity of CaCl2 or the overall approach to the problem. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the correct methodology.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the heat capacities of the substances involved and the conversion of enthalpy from kJ/mole to kJ. The specific heat capacity of the solution and the treatment of the heat of reaction are also points of contention.

kishin7
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So here's the problem

Conside the dissolution of CaCl2:

CaCl2(s) ---> Ca^(2+) (aq) + 2Cl^(-1) (aq) deltaH = -81.5kJ

An 11.0g sample of CACl2 id dissolved in 125g of water, with both substances at 25.0°C. Calculate the final temperature of the solution assuming no heat lost to the surroundings and assuming the solution has a specific heat capacity of 4.18 J/(°C*g).


So far I think it's just q(rxn) = q(water) + q(CaCl2)

(136g)(4.184J/°Cg)(Tfinal - 25.0°C) = (125g)(4.184)(Tfinal - 25.0°c) + (11g)c(Tfinal - 25.0°C)

But it seems that I am missing C for the calcium chloride and I don't know what to do about it? is there another way to calculating it without C of CaCl2?
 
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The heat capacity(Cp) of the solution will be very close to that of pure water, 4.18 J/(g C). The problem states this.
 
Are you suggesting that I use 4.184 for the heat capacity of every one? If I do then it wouldn't make sense since that's just making the left side equal to the right side and getting at final temperature of 25.0°C.

By the way, is my formula correct though?

heat of solution = heat of water + heat of calcium chloride
 
So far I think it's just q(rxn) = q(water) + q(CaCl2)

(136g)(4.184J/°Cg)(Tfinal - 25.0°C) = (125g)(4.184)(Tfinal - 25.0°c) + (11g)c(Tfinal - 25.0°C)
You won't need the left side of this equation. Note that the enthalpy is in kJ/mole of reaction. How would you convert kJ/mole of reaction to kJ?

This energy is equivalent to q...it is used to raise the temperature of ___?

"(136g)(4.184J/°Cg)(Tfinal - 25.0°C)",

this is incorrect, 4.184J/Cg applies specifically to water.
 
Last edited:

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