A2 Daily A Level Physics question
In a lab, equal masses of copper and aluminium blocks start at the same temperature. Each is heated for the same time by an identical electric heater supplying the same power, and heat losses are negligible. Which statement must be true?
Answer
The correct answer is C.
Correct: C — The copper block has the greater temperature rise. A Aluminium typically has a larger specific heat capacity than copper, so for the same energy and mass it warms less, not more. B Equal energy to equal masses does not give equal temperature changes because the temperature rise depends on specific heat capacity. C This is correct because copper’s lower specific heat capacity means the same energy causes a larger temperature increase for the same mass. D The rate of temperature increase depends on specific heat capacity; with identical power and mass, they do not warm at the same rate.