Explore

Learn: Density and Specific Heat Capacity
OCR GCSE Physics J249
Ready to start this lesson?
Sign in to track your progress. 15 steps including 8 interactive questions.
Sign In to Start LearningStudents also studied
Browse allSteps in this lesson (15)
Welcome!Today we'll learn about density and specific heat capacity. These are key concepts that explain how materials behave and respond to heat. Let's explore these ideas step by step!
What is Density?Density is how much mass a material has in a specific volume. It helps us understand why some objects float while others sink. The formula for density is density = mass ÷ volume. Units for density are usually kg/m³ or g/cm³.
Quick check: Which formula represents density?
Start the lesson to answer this multiple choice question
Specific Heat CapacitySpecific heat capacity is the amount of energy required to raise the temperature of 1 kg of a substance by 1°C. The formula to calculate energy transferred is E = m × c × Δθ, where:E is energy in joules (J)m is mass in kilograms (kg)c is specific heat capacity in J/kg°CΔθ is the temperature change in °C
The formula for energy transfer is E = {{blank0}} × {{blank1}} × {{blank2}}.
Start the lesson to answer this fill in the blank question
Why Are These Concepts Important?Density helps us understand why objects float or sink. For example, a wooden block floats in water because it has a lower density than water. Specific heat capacity helps us understand how much energy is needed to heat or cool substances. This is useful in cooking, industrial processes, and even understanding the Earth's climate!
An object has a mass of 300 g and a volume of 100 cm³. What is its density?
Start the lesson to answer this multiple choice question
Measuring DensityTo measure density, you need to find the mass and volume of an object. The mass can be measured using a balance. The volume can be calculated using formulas for regular shapes or measured by the displacement method for irregular shapes.
Using Specific Heat CapacitySpecific heat capacity is useful in designing items like kettles and radiators. For example, water has a high specific heat capacity, which makes it great for storing heat in central heating systems.
Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
Start the lesson to answer this matching question
Review Time!Great work! You've learned about density and specific heat capacity. Now let's test your understanding with a few questions.
Which of the following are true about density? (Select all that apply)
Start the lesson to answer this multi-select question
Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
Start the lesson to answer this math equation question
Which factor affects the density of an object?
Start the lesson to answer this multiple choice question
Specific heat capacity is the energy required to raise the temperature of {{blank0}} kg of a substance by {{blank1}}°C.
Start the lesson to answer this fill in the blank question

Want to Learn More?
Get personalised lessons, quizzes, and instant feedback from your AI tutor.
Explore More Topics