What is the specific heat formula?

The specific heat formula, which is crucial in HVAC calculations, is expressed as Q = mcΔT. In this formula, Q represents the amount of heat energy transferred, m symbolizes the mass of the substance, c denotes the specific heat capacity of that substance, and ΔT signifies the change in temperature.

Understanding each component helps to clarify why this formula is used:

• Q is the heat energy that is added or removed from a substance.

• m indicates the mass of the material involved, which directly influences how much heat is required to achieve the desired temperature change.

• c is the specific heat capacity, a property that defines how much heat energy is necessary to raise the temperature of one unit mass of the material by one degree Celsius (or one Kelvin).

• ΔT (the change in temperature) determines how much the temperature needs to change, which directly impacts the total heat transfer.

Together, these components allow calculations of energy transfer in heating or cooling processes, making it essential for HVAC applications, such as determining how much energy is required to heat or cool air in a given volume.