Definition: The amount of energy required to raise the temperature of 1 kg of a substance by 1°C. Measured in kJ/(kg·°C).
Common Values::
- Water: 4.18 kJ/(kg·°C)
- Ice: 2.05 kJ/(kg·°C)
- Beef (frozen): 1.7 kJ/(kg·°C)
- Beef (unfrozen): 3.2 kJ/(kg·°C)
- Air: 1.00 kJ/(kg·°C)
Why It Matters: Used to calculate cooling requirements for products. Higher specific heat capacity means more energy required to change temperature.
Related Terms: Sensible Heat, Thermal Load, Heat Capacity