Identify the known values: mass, specific heat, initial temperature, final temperature, and heat energy if given
Use the specific heat formula: q = mcΔT
Calculate temperature change: ΔT = final temperature – initial temperature
Rearrange the formula as needed:
c = q / (mΔT)
m = q / (cΔT)
q = mcΔT
Keep units consistent:
q in joules or calories
m in grams or kilograms
c in J/g·°C or J/kg·°C
ΔT in °C or K
Substitute the known values into the correct formula
Solve for the unknown quantity
Check the sign of q:
positive for heat absorbed
negative for heat released
Verify the answer has the correct units
Round the final answer to the appropriate number of significant figures