Temperature Change Formula:
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Definition: This calculator estimates the temperature change in a substance based on power input, duration, mass, and specific heat capacity.
Purpose: It helps engineers, scientists, and students determine how much a material's temperature will change when energy is applied.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The energy input (Watts × Time) is divided by the thermal capacity (mass × specific heat) to determine temperature rise.
Details: Accurate temperature prediction is crucial for thermal management, material processing, and safety in electrical and mechanical systems.
Tips: Enter power in watts, time in seconds, mass in kilograms, and specific heat capacity (default 4186 J/kg·K for water). All values must be > 0.
Q1: What is specific heat capacity?
A: The amount of energy needed to raise 1 kg of a substance by 1 Kelvin. Water's is 4186 J/kg·K.
Q2: Can I use this for cooling calculations?
A: Yes, use negative watts to represent heat removal (cooling).
Q3: Why is the result in Kelvin?
A: Kelvin and Celsius degrees are equivalent in magnitude for temperature differences.
Q4: What's a typical specific heat for metals?
A: Aluminum ~900 J/kg·K, Copper ~385 J/kg·K, Steel ~420-500 J/kg·K.
Q5: Does this account for heat losses?
A: No, this calculates ideal temperature rise without losses to surroundings.