Chapter U5.102, Problem 3E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The use of ethanol instead of water in a calorimetry experiment can be done or not. Explain

Concept introduction:

Calorimetry is done with calorimetry. In it heat transfer in various reactions is studied. Generally, water is used as a solvent in calorimetry.

Heat transfer in a process can be calculated by formula:

  $\begin{array}{l}q=mc\Delta T\\ whereqisquantityofheatabsorbed\\ m=givenmass\\ \Delta T=riseintemperature\\ cisspecificheat\end{array}$

Answer to Problem 3E

Ethanol can be used instead of water.

Explanation of Solution

Ethanol can be used in calorimetry experiment but water is preferred because specific heat of water is high. So, it can absorb a large amount of heat without undergoing much increase in temperature. But, specific heat of ethanol is low. So it is difficult to absorb much heat while remaining in liquid state.

Conclusion

So, ethanol can be used but water is best preferred in calorimetry experiments.