Thermal energy in a sample of candle wax?

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How can I design an experiment to determine the thermal energy in a sample of candle wax?

 

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Can anyone help?

 

[m2003]

Thermal energy is a form of energy that is associated with the motion of particles within a substance. In the case of candle wax, thermal energy is the energy that is responsible for melting the wax and causing it to release heat and light when burned.

To determine the thermal energy in a sample of candle wax, an experiment can be designed that involves measuring the change in temperature of the wax as it is heated. This can be done using a calorimeter, which is a device that is designed to measure changes in temperature.

First, a known mass of the candle wax should be placed in the calorimeter. The initial temperature of the wax should be recorded. Then, a known amount of heat should be added to the wax, either by burning the candle or by heating it with a heat source. As the wax absorbs the heat, its temperature will increase. The final temperature of the wax should be recorded.

Using the initial and final temperatures, along with the known mass of the wax and the amount of heat added, the thermal energy of the wax can be calculated using the formula Q = mcΔT, where Q is the thermal energy, m is the mass of the wax, c is the specific heat capacity of the wax, and ΔT is the change in temperature.

To ensure the accuracy of the results, the experiment should be repeated several times and the average thermal energy value should be calculated. Additionally, a control experiment can be performed using a substance with a known specific heat capacity, such as water, to validate the results.

In conclusion, by using a calorimeter and measuring the change in temperature of a sample of candle wax, it is possible to design an experiment that can accurately determine the thermal energy within the wax. This information can be useful in understanding the properties of candle wax and its behavior when heated.