Match head rubbed over a distance

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To determine the average force required to raise the temperature of a match head by ΔT when rubbed over a rough surface, the equation F = (mcΔT)/d is used, where m is mass, c is specific heat, and d is the distance rubbed. The relationship between heat capacity and work is established by equating the heat produced (Q) to the work done (W), leading to the equation mcΔT = Fd. This implies that all work done by the frictional force is converted into heat energy. Understanding this concept is essential for solving related physics problems effectively. The discussion clarifies the application of these principles in a practical scenario.
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Hi, I'm trying to work this problem out and unfortunately my book doesn't have an explanation.

Homework Statement



A match head is rubbed a distance d over a rough surface in order to increase the temperature to its flash point. If the patch head material has a mass m and a specific heat c, which equation represents the average force needed to raise the match head's temperature by \DeltaT?

Homework Equations



The answer is:

F=\frac{mc\Delta T}{d}

The Attempt at a Solution



Do I simply set specific heat capacity (Q) to W: Q=W and get:

mc\Delta T=Fd

and move d over?

I'm working in a MCAT study book and it doesn't go into detail about the heat capacity equation that it gives me, but I'm trying to understand this a little more fully. Thanks for any help!
 
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Tybstar said:
Do I simply set specific heat capacity (Q) to W: Q=W and get:

mc\Delta T=Fd

and move d over?

Yes. The answer assumes that all the "work" done by the force of friction F is converted to heat.
 
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