Specific Heat Calculator
Work out the heat energy needed to change the temperature of a material, using Q = mcΔT.
Formula and sources updated · Data sources · 1View algorithm, constants and default inputs (JSON)
About this calculator
Calculate heat transfer with Q = mass × specific heat × temperature change. Specific heat depends on material and conditions; the listed substance values are reference approximations. A negative temperature change produces negative heat transfer under this sign convention.
Worked example
calculated with the default values below
Mass 500 g · Material Water (liquid) · Temperature change 25 °C Energy 52,300 J · Energy 52.30 kJ · Energy 12,500 cal · Energy 12.50 kcal · Energy 14.528 Wh
Method and assumptions
Sensible heat is mass × the selected specific-heat value × temperature change. Energy conversions use 4.184 J per thermochemical calorie and 3600 J per Wh. Selected material values are fixed implementation constants, not a temperature-dependent database. Assumes no phase change or heat loss; a negative temperature change produces a signed negative heat transfer.
Data sources
Disclaimer
These calculators give general conversion results. Rounding and the precision of the value you enter both affect the output, so treat displayed decimals as indicative rather than exact.
Implementation source
This record describes the implementation used by this page. It is not independent validation. External references, when available, support only the stated formula or definition; estimates and custom rules retain their own assumptions.
Formula and variables
Q = m × c × ΔT
- m
- Mass (kg)
- c
- Specific heat (J/(kg·K))
- ΔT
- Temperature change (K)
Q = mass × specific heat × temperature change. Listed specific heats are reference values; a negative temperature change gives negative heat under this sign convention.
Frequently asked questions
Why can the calculated heat be negative?
A negative temperature change means the material gives off heat rather than absorbs it. The sign follows the temperature change you entered.
Which inputs and limits apply to Specific Heat Calculator?
Use the units shown beside each field. These are form limits, not recommended settings. Mass: 0–1,000,000 g; Temperature change: -1,000–1,000 °C Sensible heat is mass × the selected specific-heat value × temperature change. Energy conversions use 4.184 J per thermochemical calorie and 3600 J per Wh. Selected material values are fixed implementation constants, not a temperature-dependent database. Assumes no phase change or heat loss; a negative temperature change produces a signed negative heat transfer.
What is a complete worked example for Mass = 500 g; Material = Water (liquid)?
Inputs: Mass = 500 g; Material = Water (liquid); Temperature change = 25 °C. Calculation: Q = m × c × ΔT. Results: Energy = 52,300 J; Energy = 52.30 kJ; Energy = 12,500 cal; Energy = 12.50 kcal; Energy = 14.528 Wh.