Specific Heat

This lab measures the specific heat of a metallic sample (iron, aluminum, lead, or brass).  Multiple trials are performed to improve the accuracy of the results.

Student Objectives

  • Observe the difference between heat and temperature
  • Monitor the transfer of heat from one substance to another
  • Use these observations to calculate the specific heat of an unknown substance
  • Calculate the amount of error in an experimental value
  • Examine a procedure for sources of experimental error
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