Formula
Q = mcΔT
Heat = Mass × Specific Heat × Temperature Change
Understanding Specific Heat
Specific heat is the amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of 1 gram of a substance by 1 degree Celsius. Water has a high specific heat (4.18 J/g·°C) making it excellent for temperature regulation.
Common Specific Heats
Water (liquid)4.18 J/g·°C
Ice2.09 J/g·°C
Aluminum0.90 J/g·°C
Iron0.45 J/g·°C
Copper0.39 J/g·°C
Gold0.13 J/g·°C