Answer to Question #344896 in Inorganic Chemistry for Mark

Question

Calculate for the specific heat of 28.0 g of of mercury (Hg)

when 137 J of energy is involved when raised at an initial

temperature of 22.0°C to a final temperature of 57. 0C.

Answer 1

q = m × C × ΔT

where:

q = amount of heat energy gained or lost by substance (J)

m = mass of sample (g)

C = specific heat capacity (J °C⁻¹ g⁻¹)

ΔT = change in temperature (°C)

q = 137 J

m = 28.0 g

C = unknown

ΔT = T_f − T_i = 57.0°C − 22.0°C = 35.0°C

Thus:

(137 J) = (28.0 g) × C × (35.0°C)

C = (137 J) / (28.0 g × 35.0°C) = 0.13979 J °C⁻¹ g⁻¹ = 0.140 J °C⁻¹ g⁻¹

C = 0.140 J °C⁻¹ g⁻¹

Answer: The specific heat of mercury (Hg) is 0.140 J °C⁻¹ g⁻¹