Specific Heat Calculator (Q = mcΔT)
Works out the heat needed to change something’s temperature.
Answer
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Heat energy —
In kilowatt hours — kWh
Specific heat capacity — J/kg·K
Mass —
Final temperature —
Temperature change — K
Reading this —
The formula
Q = m × c × ΔT
A change of 1 K is a change of 1 °C, or 1.8 °F. Melting or boiling needs extra latent heat, on top of this.
What to watch out for
The answer is the heat absorbed by the material. An actual kettle or boiler has to supply more, as it also warms its surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much energy heats 2 kg of water from 20 °C to 100 °C?
669.8 kJ, or 0.186 kWh.
Why does water take so long to heat?
Its specific heat is high. The same heat raises a kilogram of copper 10.9 times as far.