Question

Q11 a) Discuss the errors in the experiment of Specific heat capacity of water, how could to minimize those errors (not less than 50 words). (6 Marks)

Answer 1

Specific Heat Capacity of water experiment is carried out by using Calorimeter. Some of the errors encountered during the experiment and their solutions are listed below:

1. Loss of energy due to Radiation, Conduction and Convection inside the calorimeter. Energy is lost due to all these modes of heat transfer which finds it difficult for finding the specific heat capacity of water. This can be overcome by using a proper insulated calorimeter or by using a new or well maintained calorimeter.
2. Energy added during starring. Stirring is done for proper mixing of the water evenly in the calorimeter. When we stir the water some amount of energy is added to the calorimeter which gives us different observations. This can be reduced by using proper stirring mechanism which does not generate any energy to the calorimeter.
3. Uneven stirring or unequal stirring in between the trials. Many people stir the calorimeter in between the trails at unwanted times and stir unevenly. This should be avoided. Stirring at required time should be done.
4. Using improper or faulty thermometers. Temperature calibrating instruments should be of sound use. These should be able to capture the temperature instantly. Faulty thermometers would not be used for experimentation.
5. Careless use of Pipette and measuring cylinders. People use Pipettes and measuring cylinders for measuring water. During this there will be parallax errors due to position, eye sights, water capillary etc. This can't be avoided but can be reduced by proper position of pipettes and measuring cylinders.
6. Parallax or Experimental errors done by students like errors in measuring, errors in temperature readings, errors in mixing, errors in stirring, etc. These can be overcome by using automatic machines or electrical equipment like sensors for measuring and temperature readings. Mechanical stirrers for stirring.