Question detail

What is the unit of specific heat capacity?

Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.

At a glance

MCQ

Type

practice

Style

Topic

Internal energy and energy transfers

Question

  1. A. J/kg°C
  2. B. kg/J
  3. C. J/kg
  4. D. °C/J

Answer

The correct answer is J/kg°C.

Explanation

Definition lens: Give the precise definition, then add a context sentence that shows how it is used. This question asks: What is the unit of specific heat capacity. The correct response is J/kg°C, because density links mass and volume, so the answer must preserve which quantity is being calculated. In Temperature changes in a system and specific heat capacity, the marking point should connect directly to identify change in thermal energy in joules, mass in kilograms, specific heat capacity in joules per kilogram per degree Celsius and temperature change in degrees Celsius. If the question includes values, the working must keep the appropriate unit and operation; if it is an explanation, it must name the relevant particle behaviour or energy change. This item belongs to Internal energy and energy transfers, so avoid answers that switch to a different quantity, confuse heat with temperature, or describe gas pressure without collisions when collisions are the reason. Checkpoint 294 is distinct because it uses this exact question context and the definition lens rather than a generic particle-model sentence.

Common mistake

Confusing Units of Measurement

Students often confuse joules (J) with kilograms (kg) when identifying change in thermal energy and mass.

Always remember that thermal energy is measured in joules (J) and mass is measured in kilograms (kg). Use the correct units for each quantity when solving problems.

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What is the unit of specific heat | AQA Physics | ExamCompanion