# Solar energy collector formula

1. Jan 25, 2006

### nina

I'm stuck on a formula I'm using to design a solar water heater at uni (and no, I'm not a physics student, otherwise I'd probably be kicking myself its such a stupid question) and I understand the theory behind it, I just can't work out what the Qs stands for.

^T=Qs / mC

where ^T= change in water temp,
m= water flow rate in m/kg,
and C= specific heat of the water

I've tried rearranging the formula but it was never my strong point at A level, and the Qs appears to be representing energy, but of what I'm not sure.

Any ideas?

2. Jan 26, 2006

### Staff: Mentor

Q = mc$\Delta$T, where Q would heat (thermal energy/enthalpy), m = mass, c = specific heat, and $\Delta$T = differential temperature.

Perhaps in ^T=Qs / mC

Q = energy flux (energy/ unit area) and s = surface area, so that Qs = energy.

3. Jan 26, 2006

### nina

Thank you!!

Now I feel a bit stupid, I knew Q=mc^T from my Physics a couple of years ago, but didnt even see it in this one

Thanks again for pointing it out.