Solving Specific Heat Problem for Oven Mitt Design

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a homework problem related to calculating the specific heat required for an oven mitt design, given specific parameters such as heat transfer, mass, and temperature change. The focus is on the application of the specific heat formula in a practical context.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the problem statement and attempts to apply the formula Q = mcΔT, suggesting an answer that seems incorrect to them.
  • Another participant points out that the original poster is solving for c, not Q, and questions the temperature conversion used in the calculations.
  • There is a discussion about the correct method for calculating the temperature change, with a suggestion to convert both initial and final temperatures to Celsius before finding the change.
  • Participants confirm that Q is indeed 200 J, emphasizing the importance of understanding the definitions of the variables involved.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express uncertainty about the calculations and methods used, indicating that there is no consensus on the correct approach to solving the problem. Multiple viewpoints on the temperature conversion and variable definitions are presented.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the clarity of temperature conversion and the understanding of the specific heat formula, which may affect the problem-solving process.

rtm31
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Homework Statement



1. You are designing an oven mitt and you know the amount of heat (200J), the mass the mitt needs to be (5g), and the change in temperature it will undergo (25-500 F). What is the specific heat that your oven mitt needs to be?



Homework Equations



Q = mcΔT

The Attempt at a Solution



Q=5g*200J*246deg C
= 246,000


I think this should be simple but that answer just doesn't seem right. Did I do it wrong?
 
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You are supposed to be solving for c, not Q. How did you get 246 deg C? I don't think that is right.
 
I just did 500-25 and converted it to celsius. I don't think that's right. So would 200J would be Q then?
 
rtm31 said:
I just did 500-25 and converted it to celsius. I don't think that's right.

That won't work. Try it by converting both your initial and final temperatures into celsius first and then find the change.
rtm31 said:
So would 200J would be Q then?

Yes, Q is 200 J. Check the definitions of each variable so you know what they represent.
 
Thanks for your help!
 

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