Enthalpy of Fusion of Ice

Measuring the energy required to melt ice

Thermochemistry Beginner (Middle School) 25 min ~$3.00

Objective

Determine the enthalpy of fusion of ice by adding a known mass of ice to warm water and measuring the temperature change.

Background

When ice melts, it absorbs energy from its surroundings without changing temperature (latent heat). By adding ice to warm water in a calorimeter and measuring the final temperature, the enthalpy of fusion can be calculated. The accepted value is 6.01 kJ/mol (334 J/g).

Safety Warnings

  • Handle warm water with care
  • Dry ice before weighing to avoid extra water mass

Required PPE

goggles

Materials

  • Ice cubes (50 g)
    From distilled water preferred
  • Warm water (100 mL)
    About 40°C

Equipment

Polystyrene cup calorimeter Thermometer Analytical balance Paper towels

Procedure

1

Add 100 mL of warm water (~40°C) to the calorimeter. Record exact temperature and mass.

3 min
2

Quickly dry ice cubes with paper towel and weigh them. Record mass.

2 min
3

Add the ice to the warm water. Stir gently until all ice melts.

5 min
4

Record the final equilibrium temperature.

2 min
5

Set up the equation: heat lost by warm water = heat to melt ice + heat to warm melted ice to final T.

3 min
6

Solve for ΔHfus. Convert to kJ/mol (multiply by 18.015 g/mol). Compare with 6.01 kJ/mol.

5 min

Expected Results

The final temperature should be around 10-15°C. Calculated ΔHfus should be approximately 280-350 J/g (accepted: 334 J/g or 6.01 kJ/mol).

Cleanup

Pour water down the drain. Dry the calorimeter.

Details

Category
Thermochemistry
Difficulty
Beginner (Middle School)
Duration
25 min
Est. Cost
$3.00
Steps
6
Materials
2

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the objective of Enthalpy of Fusion of Ice?
Determine the enthalpy of fusion of ice by adding a known mass of ice to warm water and measuring the temperature change.
How difficult is Enthalpy of Fusion of Ice?
This experiment is rated as Beginner (Middle School). It takes approximately 25 minutes to complete.
What safety precautions are needed for Enthalpy of Fusion of Ice?
Key safety precautions include: Handle warm water with care; Dry ice before weighing to avoid extra water mass.
What materials are needed for Enthalpy of Fusion of Ice?
The main materials required are: Ice cubes, Warm water.
What results should I expect from Enthalpy of Fusion of Ice?
The final temperature should be around 10-15°C. Calculated ΔHfus should be approximately 280-350 J/g (accepted: 334 J/g or 6.01 kJ/mol).