Answer to Question #141115 in General Chemistry for Marc Karl

Question

Distinguish between “specific heat capacity” and “heat capacity.” Which
parameter would you more likely use if you were calculating heat changes in
(a) a chrome-plated, brass bathroom fixture; (b) a sample of high-purity
copper wire; (c) a sample of pure water? Explain.

Answer 1

Two difference between Heat Capacity and Specific Heat Capacity are :(1) : Heat Capacity of the substance is defined as the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of the substance by 1oC whereas Specific Heat Capacity is defined as the amount of heat required to raise the temperature by 1oC of unit mass of substance.(2) : Specific Heat Capacity does not depend on mass of substance whereas Heat Capacity depends on mass of substance.