Question

which requires more energy to heat from 20 °c to 30 °c, iron or gold? (assume the masses of the metals are equal.) , since it has a higher

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the heat - capacity formula

The heat energy required to change the temperature of a substance is given by $Q = mc\Delta T$, where $Q$ is the heat energy, $m$ is the mass, $c$ is the specific heat capacity, and $\Delta T$ is the change in temperature. Given that $m$ and $\Delta T$ are the same for iron and gold.

Step2: Compare specific - heat capacities

The specific heat capacity of iron is approximately $0.450\ J/g^{\circ}C$ and that of gold is approximately $0.129\ J/g^{\circ}C$. Since $Q$ is directly proportional to $c$ (when $m$ and $\Delta T$ are constant), the substance with the higher specific heat capacity will require more energy.

Answer:

Iron, specific heat capacity