Chemistry Need help determining the correct equation

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the correct application of the equation for calculating heat transfer, specifically q=mcΔT, where q represents heat, m is mass, c is specific heat capacity, and ΔT is the change in temperature. The initial calculation of 2620 g is incorrect due to a miscalculation of the specific heat capacity (c). The conversation emphasizes that problem-solving in thermodynamics requires a clear understanding of the physical processes involved, such as the cooling of water and the melting of ice, rather than merely applying equations.

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  • Knowledge of specific heat capacity
  • Concept of phase changes in materials, specifically melting
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Homework Statement
How much ice in grams would have to melt to lower the temperature of 52.4 g of water from 50.0 ∘C to 0 ∘C? (Assume that the density of water is 1.0 g/mL.)
Relevant Equations
q=mc(change in T)
I thought it would be...
q=mc(change in T)
=52.4g(1.0C/gC)(50C)
= 2620 g

This is incorrect. Am I using the right equation?
 
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Your value of c is wrong. Fix it and you get the heat in J the ice has to absorb. That is not the amount of ice you need.
 
Solving problems is NOT about "using a correct equation". It is about understanding the problem and describing it mathematically.

There are two separate thing happening here: one is cooling water - how much heat does it give away?
Second is melting ice - how much ice will the heat given away by water melt?
 

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