Units of principal specific heat

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the units of specific heat, specifically the mechanical work unit expressed as J/kgK and the heat unit as kcal/kgK. It is established that 1 kcal/kgK is equivalent to 4184 J/kgK, indicating a direct numerical conversion between these energy units. The conversation clarifies that both units measure the energy required to raise the temperature of a kilogram of a substance by 1 Kelvin (or 1 degree Celsius). The confusion primarily arises from the terminology and the use of "K" in the context of temperature change.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of specific heat capacity
  • Familiarity with energy units (Joules and kilocalories)
  • Basic knowledge of thermodynamics
  • Concept of temperature scales (Kelvin and Celsius)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of specific heat capacity in thermodynamics
  • Learn about the conversion between energy units, specifically Joules and kilocalories
  • Explore the implications of specific heat in various materials
  • Study the relationship between temperature changes and energy transfer
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Students and professionals in physics, chemistry, and engineering, particularly those focusing on thermodynamics and energy transfer concepts.

solace28
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mechanical (work) unit is J/kgK

Heat unit is kcal/kgK

what is this mechanical (work) unit, Heat unit ? I'm not able to understand it.

please elaborate
 
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Not sure what you mean nor what you are asking about, but 1 cal = 4.184 J - both are units of energy, apart from numerical conversion constant there is no difference between them other than the name. So 1 kcal/kgK = 4184 J/kgK (whatever /kgK is).
 
solace28 said:
mechanical (work) unit is J/kgK

Heat unit is kcal/kgK

what is this mechanical (work) unit, Heat unit ? I'm not able to understand it.

please elaborate

The unit is, in words, 'the number of kcal (or kJ) needed to raise the temperature of a kg of the substance by 1K" (one degree on the absolute scale or 1 celsius would do) Was it the "K" that was confusing in the OP?
 

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