14.1.4

Heat Changes

Test yourself

Combustion of Alcohols

Alcohols combust to release energy. We can measure the amount of energy released by measuring the temperature change in water.

Illustrative background for Measuring variablesIllustrative background for Measuring variables ?? "content

Measuring variables

  • The mass of the alcohol and burner is measured before and after combusting the fuel.
  • The temperature of the water can be measured before and after to find the temperature change.
  • If we divide the temperature change by the mass of fuel used, we can compare to the mass needed to heat the water up by 1 degree celsius.
Illustrative background for Practical considerationsIllustrative background for Practical considerations ?? "content

Practical considerations

  • Heat energy is lost to the surroundings, so we use draft insulators to minimise heat loss.
  • Heat energy is used to heat the glass instead of the water.
  • Some water can evaporate.

Jump to other topics

1States of Matter

2Elements, Compounds & Mixtures

3Atomic Structure

4The Periodic Table

5Chemical Formulae, Equations & Calculations

6Bonding

7Electrolysis

8Groups of the Periodic Table

9The Atmosphere

10Reactivity Series

11Metal Extraction

12Acids & Alkalis

13Chemical Tests

14Physical Chemistry

15Organic Chemistry

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