Calorimetry (Mixing)

Calorimetry: study of heat transfer between bodies. Used to measure specific heat capacities.

Principle: when two bodies at different T are placed in thermal contact, heat lost by hot = heat gained by cold (no losses).

Heat balance: m₁·c₁·(T_hot − T_f) = m₂·c₂·(T_f − T_cold). Solve for T_f or unknown c.

Calorimeter: container designed to minimize heat losses (insulated double-walled, or vacuum-jacketed).

Water is commonly used in calorimeters because of its high and well-known c.

Latent heat: heat required for phase change at constant T (e.g., ice → water).

Method of mixtures: classic experiment using known reference substance and water.

Bomb calorimeter measures heat of combustion at constant volume.