LAB 8 HEAT TRANSFER

INTRODUCTION:

Often it is necessary to predict energy flow and to measure this flow. Energy is invisible and requires special equipment. Heat, a form of energy, is not measured directly. Instead, we study heat by how it affects matter. Heat causes the molecules of matter to vibrate faster, which is recorded as temperature.

PURPOSE:

1. Determine the specific heat of a metal.
2. Determine the amount of heat flow between the metal rod and the water within the calorimeter.

MATERIALS:

1 calorimeter (styrofoam cup);

1 lids with a slot;

1 thermometer;

1 metal rod;

hot water;

mass scale;

DIAGRAM:

PROCEDURE

1. Weigh the metal rod.
2. Measure the length and the diameter of the metal rod.
3. Weigh the calorimeter and record the mass.
4. Fill one calorimeter with hot water. Weigh the water and calorimeter. Do not use the thermometer to stir. Record the temperature.
5. Place the metal rod into the calorimeter. Do not splash. Place the lid over the calorimeter. Place the thermometer through the slot and record the temperature once every minute until it reaches equilibrium. . Do not use the thermometer to stir.
6. When the water has reached the equilibrium temperature record the final temperature.
7. Discard water and return the equipment.

Calculations:

1. Subtract the mass of the calorimeter to find the mass of the water.
2. Calculate the heat transfer between the water and the metal rod.
3. Calculate the specific heat of the metal rod.
4. Calculate the density of the metal rod.

Analysis.

1. Based on the specific heat that was found for the metal rod, what do you suppose it is made of?
2. Based on the density that was calculated for the metal rod, what do you suppose it is made of?
3. If the results do not agree, which do you think is more reliable? Why?

Conclusion: