Chemisty-Heat capacity of calorimeter

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the heat capacity of a calorimeter containing 125 grams of water when 6550 J of electrical heat is added. The final temperature reached is 33.7 °C, starting from 22.6 °C. Two equations are considered for the calculation: q = C * Δt and q = s * m * Δt. The first equation yielded a result of 590 Joules/°C, while the second provided 5800 Joules/°C, leading to confusion regarding which to use for determining the calorimeter's heat capacity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calorimetry principles
  • Familiarity with the equations for heat transfer
  • Knowledge of specific heat capacity concepts
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of heat capacity in detail
  • Learn how to apply the equation q = s * m * Δt in calorimetry
  • Explore the differences between constant pressure and constant volume calorimetry
  • Investigate common sources of error in calorimetry experiments
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students studying thermodynamics, chemistry educators, and anyone involved in laboratory experiments related to heat transfer and calorimetry.

nwyatt
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Homework Statement


6550 J of electrical heat is added to a constant pressure calorimeter containing 125 grams of water at 22.6 ◦C. If the final temperature of the calorimeter is 33.7 ◦C, the heat capacity of the calorimeter (including the water) is:

Homework Equations



I think it is either q=C*\Deltat or q= s*m*\Deltat

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried with the first equation and got 590 Joules/C and on the second I got 5800 Joules/C. Both of these answers were available as choices and I don't quite understand which one I would use and why. If anyone could help explain it would be great.
 
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If 6550J of energy is added, some of it will be used to heat the water, and some will be used to heat the calorimeter:

<br /> Q_{added} = Q_{water} + Q_{calorimeter}<br />

Since you know the initial and final temperature of water, along with the mass, you should be able to calculate how much energy it used. Can you see what to do from here?
 
nwyatt said:
the heat capacity of the calorimeter (including the water)

What is the definition of heat capacity? What it is that you are heating?

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