1. What is the Thermal Energy Formula?

The thermal energy formula (Q = m × c × ΔT) calculates the amount of heat energy transferred when the temperature of a substance changes. It's fundamental in thermodynamics and heat transfer calculations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the thermal energy formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Thermal energy (Joules)
• \( m \) — Mass of the substance (kg)
• \( c \) — Specific heat capacity (J/kg·°C)
• \( \Delta T \) — Temperature change (°C)

Explanation: The formula shows that heat transfer depends on the mass of the substance, its specific heat capacity, and the temperature difference.

3. Importance of Thermal Energy Calculation

Details: Calculating thermal energy is essential for designing heating/cooling systems, understanding phase changes, and solving problems in thermodynamics and engineering.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kilograms, specific heat in J/kg·°C, and temperature change in °C. All values must be valid (mass > 0, specific heat > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is specific heat capacity?
A: It's the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 kg of a substance by 1°C. Different materials have different specific heat values.

Q2: Can this formula be used for phase changes?
A: No, this formula only applies when temperature changes. For phase changes (melting, boiling), you need the latent heat formula (Q = m × L).

Q3: What are typical specific heat values?
A: Water: ~4186 J/kg·°C, Aluminum: ~900 J/kg·°C, Iron: ~450 J/kg·°C, Copper: ~385 J/kg·°C.

Q4: Does the formula work for cooling as well as heating?
A: Yes, ΔT can be positive (heating) or negative (cooling), resulting in positive (energy absorbed) or negative (energy released) Q values.

Q5: What are the units of thermal energy?
A: The SI unit is Joules (J), but calories or BTU may be used in other systems (1 cal = 4.184 J).