Specific Heat Calculator
Energy to heat a mass by a temperature.
Enter your values
ⓘ Live results
Results
- Energy required
- 627.9 kJ
- In kilowatt hours
- 0.1744
- In calories
- 150,072
- Time at 2 kW
- 5.2 min
Quick answer
Heat energy equals mass times specific heat capacity times temperature change.
Q = m × c × ΔT
How to use the Specific Heat Calculator
- 1Enter the mass being heated.
- 2Pick the substance.
- 3Enter the temperature change required.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Mass2.5 kg
- SubstanceWater
- Temperature change60 °C
Results
- Energy required627.9 kJ
- In kilowatt hours0.1744
- In calories150,072
- Time at 2 kW5.2 min
Frequently asked questions
Why does water need so much energy?
Water has an unusually high specific heat capacity.
Does phase change count?
No — melting or boiling needs latent heat on top of this.
About this calculator
- Built and reviewed by James Whitfield · How we build and test calculators
- Report an error
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.