1. What is Thermal Energy Change?

The change in thermal energy (ΔU) represents the amount of energy transferred as heat when an object's temperature changes. It's calculated using the mass, specific heat capacity, and temperature change of the substance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the thermal energy equation:

Where:

• \( \Delta U \) — Change in thermal energy (Joules)
• \( m \) — Mass of the substance (kg)
• \( c \) — Specific heat capacity (J/kg·°C)
• \( \Delta T \) — Temperature change (°C)

Explanation: The equation shows that thermal energy change is directly proportional to mass, specific heat, and temperature change.

3. Importance of Thermal Energy Calculation

Details: Calculating thermal energy changes is essential in thermodynamics, heat transfer analysis, and designing heating/cooling systems. It helps determine energy requirements for temperature changes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kilograms, specific heat in J/kg·°C, and temperature change in °C. All values must be valid (mass > 0, specific heat > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is specific heat capacity?
A: Specific heat is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 kg of a substance by 1°C.

Q2: Why is the temperature change in °C?
A: The size of 1°C is equal to 1K, so temperature differences are numerically equal in both scales.

Q3: Does this work for cooling as well as heating?
A: Yes, a negative ΔT indicates cooling (energy release) while positive ΔT indicates heating (energy absorption).

Q4: What are typical specific heat values?
A: Water: 4186 J/kg·°C, Aluminum: 900 J/kg·°C, Iron: 450 J/kg·°C.

Q5: Can this be used for phase changes?
A: No, this equation only applies to temperature changes without phase transitions.