What is the specific heat of seawater?

In summary, specific heat is the amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of a substance by one degree Celsius. It is typically measured in units of joules per gram per degree Celsius or calories per gram per degree Celsius. The specific heat of seawater is slightly higher than freshwater due to the presence of dissolved salts and other substances. On average, it is around 3.9 J/g°C or 0.93 cal/g°C. The specific heat of seawater is important in understanding the Earth's climate and ocean dynamics, as it affects the transfer of heat and temperature distribution within the ocean.
  • #1
lucy12h
4
0

Homework Statement


What is the specific heat of seawater?

Homework Equations



I'm confused about what units are used, and what the specific heat of seawater is defined at?

The Attempt at a Solution



I found a website quoting, 'specific heat is about 3850 J/(kg C)'
 
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  • #2
hi lucy12h! :smile:

specific heat is how much energy you need to raise the temperature …

since it depends on how much of the stuff you have, and how many degrees you want to raise it, it's measured in units of energy per mass per degree …

J/kg degC :wink:
 

1. What is specific heat?

Specific heat is defined as the amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of a substance by one degree Celsius.

2. How is specific heat measured?

Specific heat is typically measured in units of joules per gram per degree Celsius (J/g°C) or calories per gram per degree Celsius (cal/g°C).

3. Is the specific heat of seawater different from freshwater?

Yes, the specific heat of seawater is slightly higher than freshwater due to the presence of dissolved salts and other substances in seawater.

4. What is the specific heat of seawater?

The specific heat of seawater varies depending on the temperature and salinity of the water, but on average it is around 3.9 J/g°C or 0.93 cal/g°C.

5. Why is the specific heat of seawater important?

The specific heat of seawater is important in understanding the Earth's climate and ocean dynamics. It affects the transfer of heat between the ocean and the atmosphere, as well as the temperature distribution within the ocean itself.

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