Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Specific heat capacity and specific latent heat

Specific heat capacity and specific latent heat — practice question

(a)[2]

State the meaning of two objects being in thermal equilibrium.

(b)

A mass $X$ of ice at $0\,^{\circ}\text{C}$ is put into a beaker containing a mass $M$ of water at Celsius temperature $t$. The beaker is completely insulated and has negligible heat capacity. After a while, the ice that was added reaches thermal equilibrium with the water already in the beaker. The specific latent heat of fusion of water is $L$. The specific heat capacity of water is $c$. The final Celsius temperature of the system is $\theta$. Give expressions, in terms of some or all of $X$, $M$, $t$, $\theta$, $L$ and $c$, for the thermal energy:

(b(i))[1]

$E_1$, gained by the ice as it changes into water at $0\,^{\circ}\text{C}$.

(b(ii))[1]

$E_2$, lost as the water’s Celsius temperature falls from $t$ to $\theta$.

(b(iii))[1]

$E_3$, gained as the melted ice’s Celsius temperature rises from $0\,^{\circ}\text{C}$ to $\theta$.

(c)[2]

Use your answers in (b) to deduce that the system’s final Celsius temperature $\theta$ is given by $\theta = \frac{Mct - XL}{c(M + X)}$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 7-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: at equal temperature

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI