Benzene is a starting material in the synthesis of nylon fibers and polystyrene (Styrofoam). Its specific heat capacity is 1.74 J/g·°C. If 16.7 kJ of energy is absorbed by a 225-g sample of benzene at 20.0°C, what is its final temperature?
A) -22.7°C
B) 37.7°C
C) 42.7°C
D) 62.7°C
E) 80.1°C

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

We can use the formula: Q = mcΔT
Where Q = amount of energy absorbed, m = mass of benzene, c = specific heat capacity of benzene, and ΔT = change in temperature.
Rearranging the formula to solve for ΔT:
ΔT = Q/mc = (16.7 kJ)/(225 g x 1.74 J/g·°C) = 42.7°C
Therefore, the final temperature of the benzene is: 20.0°C + 42.7°C = 62.7°C. The correct answer choice is D.

Benzene Is a Starting Material in the Synthesis of Nylon