Question detail
What does specific heat capacity define?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Energy changes in a system, and the ways energy is stored before and after such changes
Question
- A. The energy needed to raise the temperature of one kilogram of a substance by one degree Celsius
- B. The total energy stored in a substance
- C. The energy required to change the state of a substance
- D. The energy lost when a substance cools down
Answer
The energy needed to raise the temperature of one kilogram of a substance by one degree Celsius
Explanation
The correct option is "The energy needed to raise the temperature of one kilogram of a substance by one degree Celsius". The energy needed to raise the temperature of one kilogram of a substance by one degree Celsius is right because it directly matches Energy changes in systems: Apply the equation change in thermal energy = mass x specific heat capacity x temperature change.. The other options are less suitable because they change the required Physics relationship, confuse the relevant energy store or use a distractor that does not answer the question.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Thermal Energy Changes
Students often confuse the equation for change in thermal energy with the equation for specific heat capacity, forgetting to multiply by temperature change.
To fix this, remember that the equation is change in thermal energy = mass x specific heat capacity x temperature change. Ensure you include all three components in your calculations.
Related flashcards
Flashcard 1 of 5
Related practice questions
Question 1 of 5
Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.