Specific Heat Calculator
Calculate the heat energy required to change a substance's temperature using Q equals mass times specific heat times temperature change.
Last reviewed by the Radiatus Cloud team
Calculate the heat energy needed for a temperature change using Q = mc\u0394T.
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Calculate heat energy
The heat energy needed to change the temperature of a substance is calculated as the mass multiplied by the specific heat capacity multiplied by the temperature change. The specific heat capacity is the energy required to raise one kilogram of a substance by one degree, and it varies by material. Water has a high specific heat of about 4186 joules per kilogram per kelvin, which is why it heats and cools slowly. Heating two kilograms of water by twenty degrees requires about 167 thousand joules.
The calculator gives the result in joules, kilojoules and calories, since heat is sometimes measured in calories.
Specific heat in practice
This relationship is fundamental in thermodynamics and everyday heating and cooling. It explains why coastal climates are milder, since water's high specific heat moderates temperature swings, and it is used to size heaters, design cooling systems and solve chemistry problems involving energy. Materials with low specific heat, like metals, change temperature quickly for the same energy input.
The formula applies when there is no change of state; melting or boiling involves latent heat, which is a separate calculation. Keep units consistent for a result in joules. All calculation happens locally in your browser.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the specific heat formula?
Heat energy equals mass times specific heat capacity times the change in temperature, written as Q equals m c delta T.
What is specific heat capacity?
It is the energy needed to raise one kilogram of a substance by one degree. Water\'s is high, about 4186 joules per kilogram per kelvin.
Why does water heat slowly?
Its high specific heat means a lot of energy is needed to change its temperature, which also moderates coastal climates.
Does this include melting or boiling?
No. Changes of state involve latent heat, a separate calculation. This formula covers temperature change within a single state.
What units give joules?
Mass in kilograms, specific heat in joules per kilogram per kelvin, and temperature change in degrees produce heat in joules.
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How to Use
Enter mass, specific heat capacity and temperature change.
Disclaimer: This tool is provided "as is" without warranty of any kind. Results are for educational and utility purposes.