How Do You Calculate the Specific Heat Capacity of a Cupronickel Alloy?

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In summary: This can be found in many references. Using the Heat of Mixing, you can then calculate the theoretical value of the SHC of the Cupronickel alloy by taking the weighted average of the SHC values of copper and nickel, based on their respective percentages in the alloy. In summary, to compare the results of your experiment to the actual value, you need to calculate the theoretical SHC of the Cupronickel alloy using the Heat of Mixing and the weighted average of SHC values of copper and nickel.
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Eleeist
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Homework Statement



I have done an experiment in which I measured the specific heat capacity of a coin. I would like to compare the results to the actual value. I have found out that the coin is made of Cupronickel alloy (for simplicity let's assume it's just 75% copper and 25% nickel).

SHC of copper: 0.39 kJ/kg K
SHC of nickel: 0.54 kJ/kg K

Knowing the SHC values of the two elements (copper and nickel) how would I go about calculating the theoretical value of the SHC of the Cupronickel alloy, so that I can compare it to my experiment's results?
 
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Eleeist said:

Homework Statement



I have done an experiment in which I measured the specific heat capacity of a coin. I would like to compare the results to the actual value. I have found out that the coin is made of Cupronickel alloy (for simplicity let's assume it's just 75% copper and 25% nickel).

SHC of copper: 0.39 kJ/kg K
SHC of nickel: 0.54 kJ/kg K

Knowing the SHC values of the two elements (copper and nickel) how would I go about calculating the theoretical value of the SHC of the Cupronickel alloy, so that I can compare it to my experiment's results?

To do this, you need to know the Heat of Mixing, and how it varies with temperature.
 

Related to How Do You Calculate the Specific Heat Capacity of a Cupronickel Alloy?

What is SHC and why is it important when studying alloys?

SHC stands for specific heat capacity, which is the amount of heat needed to raise the temperature of a substance by 1 degree Celsius. It is important when studying alloys because it helps determine how much heat an alloy can absorb or release without changing its temperature significantly.

How is SHC calculated for an alloy?

To calculate the SHC of an alloy, you need to know its mass, specific heat capacity of each of its components, and the temperature change. The formula is SHC = (m1 x SHC1 + m2 x SHC2 + ... + mn x SHCn) / (m1 + m2 + ... + mn), where m is the mass and SHC is the specific heat capacity of each component.

What factors can affect the SHC of an alloy?

The composition and structure of an alloy, as well as its temperature, can affect its SHC. Alloys with a higher proportion of heavier elements and a more complex structure tend to have a higher SHC. Additionally, the SHC of an alloy can change with temperature, especially at high temperatures.

Can the SHC of an alloy be measured experimentally?

Yes, the SHC of an alloy can be measured experimentally using a calorimeter. This device measures the heat absorbed or released by the alloy as its temperature changes. By controlling the temperature and measuring the heat, the SHC of the alloy can be determined.

What are some applications of knowing the SHC of an alloy?

Knowing the SHC of an alloy can be useful in various industries, such as in the design of heating and cooling systems, as well as in metallurgy and materials science. It can also be helpful in determining the appropriate material for specific applications, such as in the development of heat-resistant alloys for use in high-temperature environments.

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