Capacidade Térmica
- Created by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
- Reviewed by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
Last updated: Apr 18, 2026
Formula
C = mc
About this calculator
The thermal capacity calculator determines the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of a body by 1 °C (or 1 K). The calculation uses the formula C = m·c, where m is the mass and c is the specific heat. The result is expressed in J/°C or J/K. This tool helps understand how different materials respond to heat, allowing comparison of thermal inertia.
How it works: simply input the mass (in kg) and specific heat (in J/(kg·K)) of the material. The calculator multiplies these values to obtain the thermal capacity. For example, a 2 kg aluminum block (c ≈ 900 J/(kg·K)) has a thermal capacity of 1800 J/°C, meaning 1800 J are needed to heat it by 1 °C. Useful for engineers, students, and professionals dealing with heat transfer.
When to use? In heating or cooling projects, such as sizing heat sinks in electronics, calculating energy needed to heat water in a solar thermal system, or comparing materials for thermal insulation. Also useful in physics labs for calorimetry experiments. The calculator helps predict thermal behavior before construction.
Important caveats: the formula assumes constant specific heat, but it varies with temperature. For large temperature changes, use average values. Also, thermal capacity does not account for heat loss to the environment. In real systems, heat may dissipate, requiring corrections. Always check units: mass in kg and specific heat in J/(kg·K).
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between thermal capacity and specific heat?
Thermal capacity (C) depends on mass and material, while specific heat (c) is an intrinsic property of the material, independent of mass. C = m·c.
Can I use the calculator for liquids?
Yes, as long as you have the specific heat of the liquid. For example, water has c ≈ 4186 J/(kg·K). Just input the mass in kg.
Does thermal capacity change with temperature?
Yes, specific heat varies with temperature, so thermal capacity also varies. For accurate calculations, use average values in the range of interest.
How do I convert thermal capacity to required heat?
The required heat (Q) is given by Q = C·ΔT, where ΔT is the temperature change. For example, if C = 1800 J/°C and ΔT = 10 °C, then Q = 18000 J.
Does the calculator consider heat losses?
No. The formula C = m·c is ideal and does not include losses to the environment. In real situations, consider insulation and efficiency.