Calculating Ocean Heat Capacity to Raise Temp 1°C

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the time required to raise the average temperature of the ocean by 1°C, given a specific heat flux and the specific heat of seawater. The subject area includes thermodynamics and heat transfer principles.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between heat flux, energy, and temperature change. Questions arise regarding the units of power (Watt) and specific heat, as well as the calculations involving energy required to achieve the temperature change.

Discussion Status

Participants are engaged in clarifying units and calculations. Some have expressed confusion about the time aspect of energy transfer and the correctness of their calculations. There is an ongoing examination of assumptions related to specific heat and its units.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted concern regarding the accuracy of the specific heat value used and its units, which may affect the calculations. Participants are also considering the implications of the heat flux over the ocean surface area.

sean1234
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Hi,
If a heat flux of of 3W/ meter squared covered the 3.6 X 10^14 meters squared ocean surface and contributed only to a change in temp, how many years to raise average temp of ocean 1 degree C?
I calculated the specific heat of seawater which is 4,000 joules. I am stuck!
 
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What units make up a Watt?

Also, the units for specific heat are going to be [tex]\frac{J}{kg*K}[/tex]
 
Last edited:
Watt= 1 joule/sec
 
I'm confused with the time aspect of energy.

I multiplied (3W)(3.6x10^14)=1.08 x 10^15W = 1.08 x10^15 joules/ sec
 
(3.6 x 10 ^14)(4000) = 1.44 x 10^18 m^2joules is energy required

I figured t(1.08x10^15)=1.44 x 10^18

But I know this isn't right.
 
Sorry I had to leave you last night...

Look at the units of what you are doing. You said you calculated Cp for seawater. Where did you get that, especially since it's units are incorrect?
 

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