CHEMISTRY COMMUNITY

I’ve seen this equation written as q=nCdeltaT and q=mCdeltaT
Should we use moles or grams for this equation on the test?

Use the one that is easiest to use, I'm assuming. If they give you grams then use m and if they give you mols use n. Just make sure to then use the corresponding C. Write out your units to ensure you're getting the right answer and everything cancels out.

Use either m or n depending on the units of the specific heat, C, that is given to you. That way your units can be consistent with one another and cancel out to give you a q value in terms of Joules.

If you are given moles then use n and molar heat capacity, nad if you are given mass (g) then use m and specific heat capacity of the substance.

I would just make sure your final answer is in the units they ask for! Don't give moles if they ask for mass and vice versa!

mC represents the specific heat capacity is measured in per unit of mass; nC means the specific heat capacity is measured per mole.

Use whichever the question is asking for, but if you are not given the molar heat capacity then convert the moles into grams and use specific heat capacity.

What would be the final units for the equations? In other words, if we used moles, what would our final units be, and if we used m, what would our final units be? I get confused with the two.

The units either way should be in Joules because the moles/grams unit will be cancelled in the equation by the specific heat capacity.

It depends on what units are given in the problem. Use whichever is simplest.

i just look at the units for the specific heat, they should tell you to use grams or moles

I assume if they give you grams you use m, if moles then youd use n.

if the equation uses the g variable then use grams. If it uses the m variable which is usually represented by n, use number of moles.

Either works! Choose whichever one is most convenient for the problem.

Q=mcdeltaT can be used for any solid, liquid or gas, but specifically for gases, if you have constant volume, you can use the equation, nC_vdeltaT, or constant pressure, nC_pdeltaT. C_v and C_p both are called molar heat capacities.

If they give you the moles, use q=nCdeltaT, if they give you grams, use q=mCdeltaT. It depends on the information given.