q=Csp(delta T)

[Grace_Aspinwall4J]

We learned the equation q= specific heat x change in Temperature (q=C(delta T)). We also learned q=gxCx(delta T). When do you use each one? Why do you sometimes put the grams in the equation and sometimes not?

[Laura Picazo 1L]

You use q=cΔT when you calculate the heat energy lost or gained using a calorimeter. The c in this equation is the heat capacity of the calorimeter. You use q=mcΔT to calculate the heat energy lost or gained in open air. The c in this equation is the specific heat of the substance you are heating. In these problems you are given the mass of the substance you are heating, and are expected to calculate the energy lost or gained when the temperature is changed.