Question detail
In a calorimetry experiment, what is typically measured to determine the enthalpy change?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
A-level practical endorsement and required practical activities
Question
- A. The temperature change of the solution
- B. The mass of the reactants
- C. The volume of gas produced
- D. The time taken for the reaction
Answer
The temperature change of the solution
Explanation
The correct option is The temperature change of the solution. The temperature change of the solution is the best answer because it directly supports the AQA A-Level Chemistry objective to required practical 2: measure an enthalpy change. This reasoning is anchored to A-level required practical activities in A-level practical endorsement and required practical activities, and it separates enthalpy from similar A-Level ideas rather than relying on a vague recall statement. Other options are weaker if they use the wrong evidence, calculation, mechanism, observation, unit, or conclusion for this subtopic.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Enthalpy Change Measurement
Students often confuse the enthalpy change with the total heat released or absorbed during a reaction, neglecting to consider the specific heat capacity of the solution used.
To correctly measure the enthalpy change, use the formula q = mcΔT, where q is the heat energy, m is the mass of the solution, c is the specific heat capacity, and ΔT is the change in temperature. For example, if 100 g of water (c = 4.18 J/g°C) is heated from 20°C to 25°C, substitute into the formula: q = 100 g × 4.18 J/g°C × (25°C - 20°C) = 2090 J. Therefore, the enthalpy change is 2090 J. Keep the correction anchored to A-level required practical activities and the objective: Required practical 2: measure an enthalpy change.
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