Chemistry

Calorimetry Calculator

q = mcΔT heat transfer for any sample.

Enter your values

water = 4.184

Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed.

Results
Heat q
20920 J
In kilojoules
20.92 kJ
In calories
5000 cal
Direction
Absorbed (endothermic)
ΔT
50 °C

Quick answer

Calorimetry uses q = mcΔT, where q is heat in joules, m is mass in grams, c is specific heat and ΔT is the temperature change.

q = m × c × ΔT

At a glance

What it doesq = mcΔT heat transfer for any sample.
CategoryChemistry
Inputs neededMass, Specific heat, Start temperature, Final temperature
Main outputHeat q
Formulaq = m × c × ΔT
CostFree — no sign-up, no download

How to use the Calorimetry Calculator

  1. 1Enter the sample mass in grams.
  2. 2Enter the specific heat of the substance.
  3. 3Enter the start and final temperatures.

Inputs explained

Mass(g)
Enter the mass you are working with.
Specific heat(J/g·°C)
water = 4.184
Start temperature(°C)
Enter the start temperature you are working with.
Final temperature(°C)
Enter the final temperature you are working with.

Worked example

Using the values the calculator loads with:

Inputs

  • Mass100 g
  • Specific heat4.184 J/g·°C
  • Start temperature25 °C
  • Final temperature75 °C

Results

  • Heat q20920 J
  • In kilojoules20.92 kJ
  • In calories5000 cal
  • DirectionAbsorbed (endothermic)
  • ΔT50 °C

Frequently asked questions

What is the specific heat of water?

4.184 J/g·°C for liquid water, which is why water is the standard calorimeter fluid.

Why is my answer negative?

A negative q means the sample cooled and released heat to its surroundings.

Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.