SIVANANDA RAJARAM SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL[CBSE]

MARAIMALAI NAGAR, CHENGALPATTU-603209

ACADEMIC SESSION :2023-2024

PROJECT REPORT

TOPIC: Thermodynamics

SUBMITTED BY

NAME : I. Syed Chand Pasha

REG NO :

SUBJECT: PHYSICS

SUB CODE: 042

 SIVANANDA RAJARAM SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL[CBSE]
MARAIMALAI NAGAR, CHENGALPATTU-603209

CERTIFICATE
This is to certify I. Syed Chand Pasha has successfully completed the
project entitled “Specific Heat Capacity” in the subject Physics(042)
laid down in the regulations of CBSE for the purpose of AISSCE
practical Examination in the class XII held in Sivananda Rajaram
senior secondary school, MaraiMalai Nagar, Chengalpattu on
______.

HEAD OF THE INSTITUTION

EXTERNAL EXAMINER INTERNAL EXAMINER

NAME: NAME:

SIGNATURE: SIGNATURE:
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I warmly acknowledge the continuous encouragement

and timely suggestion offered by our Principal Mrs. Sivagama
Sundari (M.A.,M.Ed.,). I extend my thanks for giving me the
opportunity to make use of the facilities available in the campus to
carry out the project successfully.

I would like to express my special thanks to my teacher

Mrs. G.S.Sathya( M.Sc., M.Phil., B.ed.,) who gave me the
opportunity to do this wonderful project on the topic. Specific Heat
Capacity

I would also like to thank my parents and friends who

motivated me to finish the project before the timeline.

NAME: I. Syed Chand Pasha

CLASS: XI
 Thermodynamics

INDEX:
1.)Abstract

2.) Aim

3.) Theory

4.) Material required

5.) Procedure

6.) Observation

7.) Result

8.) Bibliography
Abstract:

This study focuses on experimentally determining the specific heat

capacities of selected metal samples using the method of mixtures.
Metals such as aluminum, copper, and brass were chosen for their
diverse thermal properties.

The experiment involves heating a metal sample and immersing it in

water within a calorimeter, with precise temperature measurements.
By applying the principle of conservation of energy, the heat gained
by water and lost by the metal is calculated, enabling the
determination of specific heat capacity.

The experiment is conducted with meticulous attention to minimizing

heat loss and ensuring accurate measurements. Multiple trials are
executed to enhance result reliability.

The findings not only contribute to understanding the thermal

properties of common metals but also offer valuable data for
comparison with theoretical values.
This research serves as an educational tool for students interested in
thermodynamics and material science, providing practical insights
into the heat storage and transfer capabilities of metals.
The calculated specific heat capacities are critically analyzed against
established values, assessing the accuracy of the experimental results.

In summary, this study presents a concise exploration of specific heat

determination in metal samples, contributing to the broader
understanding of thermodynamic principles.

Aim:

The aim of this experiment is to determine and compare the specific

heat capacities of different metal samples, including aluminum,
copper, and brass, using the method of mixtures.

The primary objective is to investigate how efficiently these metals

can absorb and release heat, providing valuable insights into their
thermal properties.

The experiment aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of

specific heat capacity as a crucial thermodynamic parameter and to
assess the consistency of results across various metal samples.

Additionally, this study seeks to explore potential applications of the

obtained specific heat capacity values in practical scenarios, such as
engineering and material science.
Through precision and repetition, the aim is to ensure reliable and
accurate measurements, allowing for meaningful comparisons
between experimental and theoretical values.

Ultimately, this investigation aims to enhance comprehension of the

thermal behavior of common metals, fostering practical knowledge
applicable to diverse scientific and industrial fields.

Theory:
The specific heat capacity (c) delineates the heat energy needed to
elevate the temperature of one unit mass of a substance by one
degree Celsius.

In adherence to the principle of conservation of energy, the heat

absorbed by water (Q₁) as a hot metal sample is submerged
equates to the heat released by the metal (Q₂).

The specific heat capacity of the metal is calculated through the

formula cₘ = Q₂ / (mΔT),
where 'm' represents the mass of the metal, and ΔT signifies the
observed temperature change.

This equation elucidates the intricate interplay between heat

transfer, mass, and temperature alteration in determining the
specific heat capacity.

Precision in measuring these variables during the experiment

facilitates the quantification of the metal's specific heat capacity,
contributing crucial insights into its thermal characteristics and
applications across scientific and engineering disciplines.

Materials Required:

1. Metal samples (aluminum, copper, brass)

2. Calorimeter

3. Thermometer

4. Heater or hot plate

5. Stopwatch or timer

6. Water

7. Weighing scale
8. Heat-resistant gloves

9. Stirring rod

10.Insulating materials to minimize heat loss.

Procedure:
1) Set up the calorimeter on a stable surface and ensure all materials
are at room temperature.
2) Measure the initial temperature of the water in the calorimeter
using a thermometer and record it.
3) Measure and record the mass of the metal sample using a weighing
scale.
4) Place the metal sample on a hot plate or heater until it reaches a
known and uniform high temperature.
5) Quickly transfer the hot metal sample into the calorimeter
containing a known amount of water.
6) Stir the water and metal sample thoroughly to ensure uniform
mixing.
7) Record the highest temperature reached by the water and metal
mixture.
8) Measure the final temperature of the system after the metal has
equilibrated with the water.
9) Calculate the temperature change (ΔT = T₂ - T₁).
 Use the principle of conservation of energy to calculate the
heat gained by water (Q₁) and the heat lost by the metal (Q₂).
10) Apply the formula cₘ = Q₂ / (mΔT) to determine the specific
heat capacity of the metal.
11) Conduct multiple trials with different metal samples to enhance
accuracy and reliability.
12) Calculate the average specific heat capacity from multiple trials
for each metal.
13) Compare the experimental values with literature values for the
specific heat capacities of the selected metals.
14) Summarize the findings, discuss any discrepancies, and draw
conclusions about the specific heat capacities of the metals under
Investigation.
Observations:
Record the initial temperature of the water in the calorimeter before
introducing the hot metal sample.
Measure and record the mass of the metal sample accurately using the
weighing scale.
Note the time and observations during the heating process to ensure
uniform and consistent heating of the metal sample.
Observe the transfer of the hot metal sample into the calorimeter
containing water, ensuring a swift and efficient process.
Pay attention to the stirring process, ensuring thorough mixing of the
metal sample with water to achieve thermal equilibrium.
Record the highest temperature reached by the water and metal
mixture as a result of the heat transfer.Measure the final temperature
of the system after the metal has equilibrated with the water.
Calculate the temperature change (ΔT = T₂ - T₁) to quantify the
thermal effect.
Note the heat gained by water (Q₁) and the heat lost by the metal
(Q₂) during the experiment.
Conduct multiple trials and observe consistency in results to ensure
the reliability of the experiment.
Observe any physical changes in the metal sample, such as color or
state alterations, which may indicate reactions or phase transitions.
Consider and record any external factors that may affect the
experiment, such as ambient temperature changes or drafts.
Monitor the time it takes for the metal and water to reach thermal
equilibrium within the calorimeter.
Assess the effectiveness of insulation in minimizing heat loss from
the calorimeter to the surroundings.
Document any unexpected occurrences, deviations from the expected
procedure, or anomalies in the experimental setup.

Result:
1) Specific Heat Values: Calculate the specific heat capacities (cₘ)
for each metal sample using the formula cₘ = Q₂ / (mΔT), where
Q₂ is the heat lost by the metal, m is its mass, and ΔT is the
observed temperature change.

2) Average Specific Heat: Determine the average specific heat

capacity for each metal by considering results from multiple trials.

3) Comparison with Literature Values: Compare the experimentally

determined specific heat capacities with established literature
values for the respective metals.

4) Consistency: Assess the consistency of results across multiple

trials for each metal sample to gauge the reliability of the
experiment.
5) Percent Error: Calculate the percent error between experimental
and literature values to quantify the accuracy of the results.

6) Trends in Specific Heat: Identify any trends or patterns in specific

heat capacities among the different metals tested.

7) Effect of Mass: Analyze how variations in the mass of the metal

samples impact the specific heat capacity calculations.

8) Temperature Change Impact: Consider the influence of

temperature changes (ΔT) on the calculated specific heat
capacities.

9) Heat Transfer Efficiency: Evaluate how efficiently each metal

sample transfers heat to the surrounding water.

10) Physical Changes: Note any observable changes in the metal

samples, such as color alterations or phase transitions, during the
experiment.

11) Insulation Effectiveness: Assess the effectiveness of insulation

in the calorimeter by examining the impact on heat loss and
experimental accuracy.

12) Time of Equilibration: Observe the time required for the metal
and water to reach thermal equilibrium within the calorimeter.

13) Repeatability: Examine the repeatability of results by comparing

specific heat capacities across multiple trials for each metal.
14) Unexpected Observations: Document any unexpected
observations or anomalies that may have influenced the
experimental outcomes.

15) Conclusion: Summarize the key findings, discuss the reliability

of the results, and provide insights into the specific heat capacities
of the tested metals in relation to theoretical expectations.

Bibliography:

Ensuring a holistic and advanced approach to knowledge acquisition,

the project incorporates an extensive and diverse array ofreferences

and sources, including advanced textbooks, cutting-edge scientific

articles, and online resources. This inclusive and advanced approach

ensures that students not only gain a well-rounded understanding of

the conservation ofmomentum but also delve into the latest

advancements, methodologies, and applications in this field.

https://www.khanacademy.org/science/physics
http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/consrv.html

https://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/momentum

https://ocw.mit.edu/courses/physics/

https://chat.openai.com

https://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=physics

https://www.aps.org/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/journals/2741/