Specific heat is referred to when it points to something particular. Heat capacity is the quantity of heat divided by the change in temperature. However, when we talk about a certain amount of mass, we use the term Specific Heat or Specific Heat Capacity. The heat capacity of most systems changes with quantities such as pressure, volume, and temperature.

Formula For Specific Heat 

Given that,

• Δ Q is heat gained or lost

• Δ T is the temperature difference

• mass is represented by m

The temperature difference can be represented by ΔT = (Tf – Ti), where the final temperature is represented by  Tf  and the initial temperature by  Ti.

Specific heat formula is used to determine the specific heat of any given material and its mass, heat gained, or temperature difference if some variables are given. It is expressed in Joule/Kg Kelvin (J/Kg K).

Solved Problem 

Problem 1: Calculate how much heat energy must be used to raise the temperature of 0.6 Kg of sand by 60oC. Sand Specific Heat = 830 J/KgoC

Solution:

Given,

Mass of Sand = 0.6 Kg

Δ = 90oC - 30oC = 60oC

C = 830 J/KgoC

Specific Heat is,

Hence, Heat absorbed is given as

Q = CmΔT

   = 830 J/KgoC × 0.6 Kg × 60oC

   = 29880 J.

Problem 2: If 50Kg of water absorbs 500KJ of heat, find is the temperature difference?

Solution:

Given,

m (Mass) = 50 Kg,

Q (Heat transfer) = 500 KJ,

C (Specific Heat of water) = 4.2 × 103 J/KgoC

The temperature difference is give :

 

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