Heat · SHS2 Physics

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 2.2.1.LI.3 - Describe how to determine the specific heat capacity of a solid using a liquid of a known specific heat capacity.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Outline the steps involved in the method of mixtures for determining the specific heat capacity of a solid.
Apply the principle of conservation of heat energy to calculate the specific heat capacity of a solid using data from a method of mixtures experiment.
Distinguish between a calorimeter and a simple beaker in terms of heat absorption and why the calorimeter is preferred.
Record experimental data accurately in a table and use it to compute the specific heat capacity of a given metal block.
Justify the choice of water as a practical liquid of known specific heat capacity in the method of mixtures.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Energy (Strand 2)
Sub-strand: Heat (2.1)
Content standard: 2.2.1.CS.1 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of heat transfer from substances and recognise its importance in the choice of materials as good or bad conductors 2.2.1.LO.1 Design experiments with available resources in the laboratory to determine the specific heat capacities of liquids and solids and also to determine latent heat of fusion of a liquid.
Indicator: 2.2.1.LI.3 - Describe how to determine the specific heat capacity of a solid using a liquid of a known specific heat capacity.
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 14 (Week 14 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Source document note: The official curriculum document has a fault in this entry, so the curriculum text above is transcribed exactly as printed:

exemplars - p.108: the page prints this as V I t or I^2Rt with 2 set as a superscript; the text layer flattens the superscript onto the baseline
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 108

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Experiential learning: Let learners perform experiment to determine the specific heat capacities of liquids and solids using the method of mixtures.
Let learners deduce that the energy given out by immersing heater is equal to V I t or 𝐼 2 𝑅𝑡.
Explore contributions of vulnerable groups in the class.
Assessment (2.2.1.AS.3). The document marks no depth-of-knowledge level for this indicator.
Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Audio-visuals
- Internet
- Projectors
- YouTube
- Virtual Lab Calorimeter apparatus
- Benson burner/heater
- Thermometer
- Masses (different metals)