What is the meaning of the term "Specific Heat Capacity"?

Specific Heat Capacity is the amount of energy required to increase the temperature of 1kg of a substance by 1 degree Kelvin/Celsius ."Specific" refers to the fact that this value is per kilogram, as so the Value for "Specific Heat Capacity" is independent of the mass of a sample. A substance with a higher Specific heat capacity will require more thermal energy to increase the same number of degrees that a substance with a lower specific heat capacity.

DM
Answered by Daragh M. Physics tutor

5404 Views

See similar Physics IB tutors

Related Physics IB answers

All answers ▸

Use the idea of a thermos flask to explain conduction, convection and radiation. Comment also how a thermos flask can reduce heat loss.


How do I do uncertainties properly?


Sue's brother is on a sled on top of ice (assume no friction). Sue is pulling her brother with 15 N of force at a 38 degree angle above the horizontal. Calculate the work done if she pulls him for 50 meters.


How can an object in circular motion be accelerating when it's at the same speed?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning