Equal masses of aluminum ( ) and copper ( ) start at the same temperature
PHYSICS · Single correct · AP · Physics 2: Algebra-based · Thermodynamics · Thermodynamics
Problem
Equal masses of aluminum (c=0.90Jg−1∘C−1) and copper (c=0.39Jg−1∘C−1) start at the same temperature. After each sample absorbs 1.5×103J of energy, which statement best describes their final temperatures?
(a) Both samples reach the same final temperature because they absorbed the same amount of energy.
(b) After absorbing the energy, the aluminum sample is about 20∘C hotter than the copper sample.
(c) The copper sample is at a higher temperature than the aluminum sample.
(d) The aluminum sample is at a higher temperature because its specific heat is larger.