Formula used
- C = Q/ΔT where C is heat capacity in J/K.
- c = Q/(mΔT) where c is specific heat in J/(kg·K).
- C = m·c when a material’s specific heat is known.
- Cm = Q/(nΔT) for molar heat capacity in J/(mol·K).
- For temperature dependent behavior: c(T)=a+bT+cT² and Q = m∫(T1→T2) c(T)dT.
Sign convention: heating gives positive Q; cooling gives negative Q. Temperature differences in K and °C are numerically identical, while °F differences convert by 5/9.
How to use this calculator
- Select a calculation mode matching your available measurements.
- Enter values with units; commas are allowed in numbers.
- For the polynomial mode, keep temperatures in realistic ranges.
- Press Calculate to show results above the form.
- Use the download buttons to export the latest result set.
Tip: If you know m and c, use C=m·c to compare objects’ thermal inertia directly.
Example data table
| Scenario | Given | Computed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water sample | m=0.50 kg, Q=10 kJ, ΔT=4.78 K | c≈4186 J/(kg·K) | Typical room temperature water. |
| Metal block | m=1.2 kg, c=900 J/(kg·K) | C=1080 J/K | Capacity from known material property. |
| Molar experiment | n=0.25 mol, Q=520 J, ΔT=10 K | Cm=208 J/(mol·K) | Constant pressure or volume depends on setup. |