How can a calorimeter measure energy?

Question

Avery Adams · Accepted Answer

All of the heat produced by a chemical reaction is trapped in a calorimeter. By measuring the impact of this heat on the water's temperature within the calorimeter, we can determine how much heat energy was released during the reaction.

The calorimeter is an insulated container, in which we place a measured mass of water. We know that for every #1.00^(o)#C temperature rise, each gram of water in the calorimeter absorbs 1 calorie (or 4.184J) of heat energy.

Assume that 100.0 g of water in the calorimeter undergo a chemical reaction that raises the water's temperature by 1.50^(o)C. As a result, the water takes in 150 calories.

(100.0 g x #1.50^(o)#C x 1 calorie/#g^(o)#C)

or 628J of heat energy as a consequence of the reaction. This energy can then be connected to the grams of the specific material that was utilized in the reaction.

Cooper Adams · Answer

undefined A calorimeter measures energy by using the principle of heat transfer. It consists of a container (usually made of metal) filled with water or another liquid. When a substance undergoes a chemical reaction or a physical change inside the calorimeter, it releases or absorbs heat, causing a change in the temperature of the liquid. By measuring the temperature change and knowing the specific heat capacity of the liquid, one can calculate the amount of heat released or absorbed, which corresponds to the energy change in the system.