Thermal equilibrium + heavier mass

[ariana0923]

Why is it that the object with the heavier mass influences the final temperature (once the two objects in contact have achieved thermal equilibrium)?

For ex. a copper block (4 kg) at 0 degrees and an aluminum block (1 kg) at 100 degrees...in this case, the final temp ends up lower (36 ish degrees), I'm guessing because the copper (heavier block) was colder, so it influenced the final temp. But is there a deeper reason besides the fact that its heavier? (In this case, you can't say specific heat capacity right? since Al has the higher capacity)

 

[xxChrisxx]

It is precisely because of heat capacity. Which specific is J/kg/K and heat capacity is J/K

So although Al has the specific capicity, the object has a lower total heat capacity (not sure on the nomenclature here) becuase there is less of it.

If there were only 2kg of copper the Al block would have a higher total heat capacity.

The difference is becuase becase specific heat is an intensive property and heat capacity is extensive.

 

[astrokreng]

The reason for the heavier mass influencing the final temperature in this scenario is due to the concept of thermal conductivity. Thermal conductivity is the ability of a material to transfer heat, and in this case, the copper block has a higher thermal conductivity than the aluminum block. This means that when the two objects are in contact and reach thermal equilibrium, the copper block will absorb more heat from the aluminum block and thus lower the overall temperature.

Additionally, the specific heat capacity of a material does play a role in determining the final temperature, but it is not the only factor. The specific heat capacity of aluminum may be higher, but the thermal conductivity of copper allows it to absorb and transfer more heat, leading to a lower final temperature.

In summary, the heavier mass may influence the final temperature due to its higher thermal conductivity, allowing it to absorb and transfer more heat from the lighter object. However, the specific heat capacity of the materials involved also plays a role in determining the final temperature.