Heat Transfer Calculator (Q = mcΔT)
Calculate heat energy transferred using mass, specific heat capacity, and temperature change.
Supports joules, calories, and BTU output.
Heat Energy (Q)
Heat transfer is calculated with the calorimetry equation:
Q = m × c × ΔT
Where:
- Q = heat energy transferred
- m = mass of the substance
- c = specific heat capacity
- ΔT = temperature change (final − initial)
Unit conversions:
- Joules — SI unit (base)
- Calories — 1 cal = 4.184 J
- Kilocalories — 1 kcal = 4,184 J
- BTU — 1 BTU = 1,055.06 J
Common specific heats (J/g·°C):
- Water: 4.184
- Ice: 2.09
- Aluminum: 0.897
- Iron: 0.449
- Copper: 0.385
Mass can be entered in grams or kilograms (select below). When using kg, the calculator converts to grams for c values in J/g·°C.