Amount of watts needed to heat water

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Homework Help Overview

The original poster attempts to determine the amount of power needed to heat a specific volume of water by a certain temperature. The discussion revolves around the relationship between calories and watts, as well as the relevant equations for converting between these units.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the definitions of calories and watts, questioning how to convert between these units. There are attempts to clarify the distinction between energy and power, as well as inquiries about the specific conversion factors.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided references to external resources and definitions, while others express uncertainty about the conversion process. The discussion is ongoing, with various interpretations being explored regarding the relationship between energy and power.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a specific definition of a calorie that participants are encouraged to use, as well as a focus on ensuring correct unit conversions. The original poster's confusion about the relevant equations and conversions is evident.

wakejosh
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I have a problem where I have a cup of water and I have to find out how much power I need to generate to heat it by a certian amount. I can't seem to find the equation I need in my book, can someone help me out? thanks.
 
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ok., now I am just trying to figure out how many watts = a calorie. is it 0.239 calories = 1 watt?
 
Keep in mind that a calorie is a unit of energy, and a watt is a unit of power. Do you know how to convert from power to energy? (hint -- keep track of your units so you don't mix seconds and hours, etc.)
 
i don't know, how do i convert watts to calories?
 
wakejosh said:
i don't know, how do i convert watts to calories?

It says how right at the top of the wikipedia page that I posted a link to. Use the small calorie (gram) definition.
 

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