What is the mathematical equation used when solving calorimetry problems? What does each variable in the equation represent?

The mathematical equation used in calorimetry problems is the heat transfer equation. The heat transfer (q) can be calculated using the equation:

q=mcΔT

Where:

q is the heat transfer,

m is the mass of the substance (in grams),

c is the specific heat capacity of the substance (in J/g°C or cal/g°C),

ΔT is the change in temperature (in °C).

This equation expresses the relationship between the heat transfer, the mass of the substance, its specific heat capacity, and the change in temperature.

Explanation of each variable:

q: Heat transfer, measured in joules (J) or calories (cal).

m: Mass of the substance being heated or cooled, measured in grams (g).

c: Specific heat capacity of the substance, which is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 gram of the substance by 1 degree Celsius. It is measured in joules per gram per degree Celsius (J/g°C) or calories per gram per degree Celsius (cal/g°C).

ΔT: Change in temperature, calculated by subtracting the initial temperature from the final temperature. It is measured in degrees Celsius (°C).

This equation is applicable in situations where there is a heat transfer between a substance and its surroundings, and it is commonly used to calculate the heat gained or lost in chemical reactions, physical changes, or thermal processes.