Class 10 Science - ICSE-PHYSICS
Calorimetry
The chapter Calorimetry in ICSE Class 10 Physics introduces the study of heat measurement, thermal energy transfer, and phase changes. It builds upon the concept of temperature and delves into specific heat capacity, latent heat, and the principle of conservation of energy applied to heat exchange. Students learn how to calculate heat gained or lost during temperature changes and state transitions using mathematical formulas. This chapter is fundamental for board exams as it consistently features numerical problems and conceptual reasoning questions, forming a high-scoring section in the Physics paper.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Heat Capacity
The amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of a given body by 1 degree Celsius (or 1 Kelvin).
Specific Heat Capacity
The amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of unit mass (1 kg) of a substance by 1 degree Celsius.
Principle of Calorimetry
When two or more bodies at different temperatures are mixed, heat lost by the hotter body is equal to the heat gained by the colder body, assuming no heat loss to the surroundings.
Latent Heat
The heat energy absorbed or released during a change of state at a constant temperature, without any change in temperature.
Specific Latent Heat
The amount of heat required to change the state of unit mass of a substance completely at a constant temperature.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the ICSE Physics Class 10 board examination, Calorimetry typically carries around 8 to 12 marks. Questions usually include a mix of direct definitions, conceptual questions on the high specific heat capacity of water, and 3-4 mark numerical problems based on the principle of mixtures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is water used as a coolant in car radiators?
Water has a very high specific heat capacity, allowing it to absorb a large amount of heat energy with only a small rise in temperature.
Does the temperature change during a change of state?
No, temperature remains constant during a change of state because the supplied heat energy is used entirely to break intermolecular bonds (latent heat).
What is the SI unit of specific heat capacity?
Joule per kilogram per Kelvin (J kg^-1 K^-1) or J kg^-1 degree Celsius^-1.
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