Specific Heat Capacity of Metals

Comparing heat capacities of aluminum, copper, and iron

Thermochemistry Intermediate (High School) 40 min ~$10.00

Objective

Determine the specific heat capacity of several metals using the method of mixtures and compare with accepted values.

Background

The specific heat capacity of a metal can be determined by heating a known mass of metal to a known temperature, then transferring it to water in a calorimeter and measuring the temperature change. Energy conservation (q_metal = -q_water) allows calculation of the metal's specific heat.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot metals and boiling water — burn risk
  • Use tongs to transfer hot metals
  • Do not touch hot metals with bare hands

Required PPE

goggles lab_coat

Materials

  • Metal samples (Al, Cu, Fe) (50 g each)
    Cylindrical pieces work best
  • Distilled water (300 mL)
  • Boiling water (500 mL)
    For heating metals

Equipment

Polystyrene cup calorimeter Beaker (600 mL) Hot plate Thermometer (2) Analytical balance Tongs String

Procedure

1

Weigh each metal sample accurately. Record masses.

3 min
2

Place all metals in boiling water for 10 minutes to reach 100°C.

12 min Handle hot water carefully
3

Add 100 mL room-temperature water to the calorimeter. Record initial temperature.

2 min
4

Using tongs, quickly transfer the aluminum sample to the calorimeter. Stir and record max temperature.

5 min Hot metal — use tongs
5

Calculate c(Al) = m(water)×c(water)×ΔT(water) / [m(Al)×ΔT(Al)].

5 min
6

Repeat steps 3-5 for copper and iron.

15 min
7

Compare measured values with accepted: Al=0.897, Cu=0.385, Fe=0.449 J/g°C.

5 min

Expected Results

Aluminum should give the largest temperature rise in the water (highest specific heat), followed by iron, then copper. Measured values should be within 10-20% of accepted values.

Cleanup

Allow metals to cool completely. Dry and store. Pour water down the drain. Clean calorimeter.

Details

Category
Thermochemistry
Difficulty
Intermediate (High School)
Duration
40 min
Est. Cost
$10.00
Steps
7
Materials
3

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the objective of Specific Heat Capacity of Metals?
Determine the specific heat capacity of several metals using the method of mixtures and compare with accepted values.
How difficult is Specific Heat Capacity of Metals?
This experiment is rated as Intermediate (High School). It takes approximately 40 minutes to complete.
What safety precautions are needed for Specific Heat Capacity of Metals?
Key safety precautions include: Hot metals and boiling water — burn risk; Use tongs to transfer hot metals; Do not touch hot metals with bare hands.
What materials are needed for Specific Heat Capacity of Metals?
The main materials required are: Metal samples (Al, Cu, Fe), Distilled water, Boiling water.
What results should I expect from Specific Heat Capacity of Metals?
Aluminum should give the largest temperature rise in the water (highest specific heat), followed by iron, then copper. Measured values should be within 10-20% of accepted values.