Method

  • Place a beaker on balance and zero it
  • Add oil and record mass of oil
  • Then place an immersion heater and thermometer in the oil and record the starting temperature
  • Wrap beaker in insulating foam
  • Connect a joulemeter and a power pack to the immersion heater
  • Leave for 30 mins and record temperature and energy transferred
  • Calculate Specific Heat Capacity This practical could also be done with a 1kg steel block with a hole for the immersion heater - place water in hole with immersion heater to increase conductivity and transfer of energy

Sources of Inaccuracy

  • Thermal energy passing out of the beaker into the air - Use an insulator with a lower thermal conductivity
  • Not all thermal energy is transferred to oil - Ensure that it’s fully submerged
  • Incorrect reading of thermometer - use an electric probe
  • Thermal energy not being spread through the oil - stir the oil