Chem12 Thermodynamics - thermal energy question

In summary, the question asks which would have a higher amount of thermal energy between a cup of tea at 75°C and a bathtub of water at 50°C. Both are made of water with a specific heat capacity of 4.184 J/g°C. The greater mass of the bathtub may contribute to a higher thermal energy, but the difference in temperature does not need to be considered in this case.
  • #1
p.ella
41
0
chem12 Thermodynamics -- thermal energy question

Homework Statement



Which would have a higher amount of thermal energy:

cup of tea @ 75°C OR bathtub of water @ 50°C

Homework Equations



q=mcΔT

The Attempt at a Solution



I know both are made of water with a specific heat capacity of 4.184 J/g°C. I don't know the differences in temperatures, but the fact that the tub has a greater mass probably has something to do with it, not sure what though

Any help is appreciated. Thankyou! :)
 
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  • #2
p.ella said:

Homework Equations


q=mcΔT

Thermal energy is simply U=mcT and only the heat transfer that is q=mcΔT. So you don't have to bother about the difference in temperature.
 
  • #3
Sunil Simha said:
Thermal energy is simply U=mcT and only the heat transfer that is q=mcΔT. So you don't have to bother about the difference in temperature.

Thankyou, this really helps!
 

1. What is thermal energy?

Thermal energy is the total kinetic energy of the particles in a substance. It is also known as heat energy.

2. How is thermal energy related to temperature?

Thermal energy is directly proportional to temperature. As the temperature of a substance increases, the thermal energy of its particles also increases.

3. What is the difference between thermal energy and heat?

Thermal energy is the total kinetic energy of the particles in a substance, while heat is the transfer of thermal energy from one object to another due to a difference in temperature.

4. How is thermal energy measured?

Thermal energy is measured in joules (J) in the SI system. However, it can also be measured in other units such as calories or British thermal units (BTUs).

5. How can thermal energy be transferred?

Thermal energy can be transferred through three main processes: conduction, convection, and radiation. Conduction is the transfer of heat through direct contact, convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids, and radiation is the transfer of heat through electromagnetic waves.

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