Task
Determining Heat Gain and Loss
In this activity, you’ll heat an object in hot water and then transfer it to cool water. The object will become cooler, and the cool water will become warmer. Based on the temperature changes, you’ll calculate and compare the heat lost by the object and the heat gained by the water. To begin, choose an object (or objects) made of a known material and that can be immersed in water without causing damage.
Before you begin this task, read these lab safety guidelines. If you’re using an electronic balance, watch this video about measuring mass.
Estimated time to complete: 1 hour
If you’re using an Edmentum lab kit, remove the electronic balance and thermometer from the kit. These materials are italicized in the following equipment list. Then gather any additional items shown in the list. If you’re not using an Edmentum lab kit, alternatives are suggested in parentheses. If you don't have these alternative materials at home, please check with your teacher for help.
You’ll need these materials:
electronic balance (may also use a kitchen scale, readable at least to the nearest gram)
thermometer, readable at least to the nearest degree from 0°C to 100°C (32°F to 212°F)—readings to the nearest tenth of a degree will produce better results
foam cups (2)
lids to fit the cups (may use squares of cardboard as lids)
solid object (or group of objects) of a known material that can fit easily in the cup, ideally having a total mass of 25 to 60 grams; here are some ideas:
2–5 plastic dominoes, depending on size
5–10 glass marbles, depending on size
10 quarters
tongs
pen or marker
stove, hot plate, or microwave oven
container for heating water (depends on the selected heat source)
Part A
Begin the task by performing these steps. Record your observations in the table provided.
Label the foam cups with the numbers 1 and 2.
Record the type (and quantity, if applicable) of object you will be using. Include what kind of material the object is made of.
Determine the specific heat capacity of the chosen object from this list of specific heat capacities. If you can’t locate your material on the list, do an online search.
Use the electronic balance to measure the mass of the chosen object(s). Record the mass. Then, place the object(s) into cup 1.
