Calorimetry (Specific Heat) (q = mcΔT)
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q = mcΔT
What each symbol means
| Symbol | What it stands for |
|---|---|
| c | Specific heat capacity |
| m | Mass (kg or g — keep c consistent) |
| q | Heat exchanged |
| ΔT | Temperature change (K or °C — same increment) |
When to use this
c approximately constant over ΔT. For a calorimeter + water as one lumped object, use q = CΔT with overall heat capacity C (J K⁻¹).