Specific heat capacity: Q = mcΔT

Pick a material, mass and temperature rise to see the energy needed and how long a heater would take.

Works in metric or imperial units.

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Questions students ask

Why does water take so long to heat?

Water has a high specific heat capacity, about 4200 J/kg°C, so it needs a lot of energy for each degree. That is also why seas keep coasts mild.

What formula does it use?

Q = mcΔT: energy (J) = mass (kg) × specific heat capacity (J/kg°C) × temperature change (°C).

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