Calculate the heat capacity, in joules and in calories per degree, of the following:

(a) 45.8 g of nitrogen gas

(b) 1.00 pound of aluminium metal

a) 47.632 J, 11.384 cal / °C

b) 406.87 J, 97.246 cal / ˚C

Explanation:

Given;

a) 45.8 g of nitrogen gas

Heat capacity per degree = mass * Specific heat

the specific heat of Nitrogen gas = 1.04 J/g

thus,

The Heat capacity of 45.8g Nitrogen gas = 45.8 * 1.04 = 47.632 J

also,

1 calorie = 4.184 J

therefore,

Heat capacity in calories = 47.632 J * (1 cal / 4.184 J) = 11.384 cal / °C

b) 1.00 pound of aluminium metal

We know, 1 pounds = 453.59237 grams

thus,

Heat capacity per degree = mass * Specific heat

Specific heat of the Aluminium = 0.897 J/g

therefore,

Heat capacity per degree = 453.6 * 0.897 = 406.87 J

and in calories per degree

Heat capacity = 406.87 * (1 cal / 4.184 J) = 97.246 cal / ˚C