Calculate the energy in BTUs that is removed

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the energy in BTUs required to cool one ton of poultry from 20 degrees Celsius to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. The specific heats provided are 0.80 BTU/lb/°F for temperatures above freezing and 0.41 BTU/lb/°F for temperatures below freezing. The latent heat of fusion is 99 BTU/lb. The correct approach involves converting all temperatures to a consistent unit system and applying the formula Q = cmΔT, where Q is the heat energy, m is the mass, and c is the specific heat. The conversion from BTUs to kW can be achieved using the equation kW = BTU/3414.

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[SOLVED] Heat problem

Homework Statement


The manager of a fried chicken place wishes to store a ton of poultry at 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Initially the poultry is at 20 degrees Celsius. Calculate the energy in BTUs that is removed in this cooling for storage process.

Assume that the poultry freezes at 32F

Given:
Latent heat: 99 BTU/lb
Specific heats: 0.80 BTU/deg F/lb (above freezing)
0.41 BTU/deg F/lb (below freezing)

Homework Equations


Was not specifically given any but from the book I'm thinking...

Specific heat
Q = cm\DeltaT

Latent heat
L = \frac{|Q|}{m}


The Attempt at a Solution


Would I even have to use anyone of those equations? I am already given the specific heat and latent heat so those should do me no good right?

\DeltaT = 20 - 0 = 20

Q = (.8)(2000)(20)
Q = 32000J

I know I should have to convert all fahrenheit to celsius.

I am really at a loss though what I can use to give me a final BTU. If anyone could give me a push I'd appreciate it. I have no other sources but Internet and the book so other books will not help at this point. Thanks.
 
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jason.frost said:
\DeltaT = 20 - 0 = 20

Q = (.8)(2000)(20)
Q = 32000J

I know I should have to convert all fahrenheit to celsius.
[

Then why don't you? Stick to some consistent set of units.

In the eqn Q = (.8)(2000)(20), where is the 2000 coming from? The 0.8 is in BTU/lb/F, but delta_t = 20...This is meaningless!

Change everything to one system of units.
 
Whoops...sorry I meant to put in what each letter stood for.

Q = cm\DeltaT
\DeltaT - change in temp
m - mass
c - specific heat (which is given)

1 ton = 2000 lbs = 907.184 kg
kW = Btu / 3414

Q = (.8 BTU/lb/F)(907.184kg)(20C)
Q =

Can I convert the BTUs to kW just by using the equation kW = BTU/3414?
 
1 ton = 2240 lb = 907 kg.

As I said, convert everything to one system of units. Sp heat is given in BTU. Temp change in C can be easily converted to F. Use whichever you like.

> Can I convert the BTUs to kW just by using the equation kW = BTU/3414?

Yes.
 

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