Energy and Fuels

Energy and Fuels

Fuel energy is calculated using calorimerty

Different fuels produce different amounts of energy. To measure the amount of energy produced when a fuel is burnt, you can simply burn the fuel and use the flame to heat up some water. Calorimetry uses a glass or metal container (it's usually made of copper because copper conducts heat so well).

Method

1) Put 50g of water in the copper can and record its temperature.

2) Weigh the spirit burner and lid.

3) Put the spirit burner underneath the can, and light the wick. Heat the water, stiring constantly until the temperature reaches about 50 degrees.

4) Put out the flame using the burner lid and measure the final temperature of the water.

5) Weigh the spirit burner and lid again.

Example: To work out the energy per gram of methylated spirit:

1) Mass of spirit burner and lid before heating = 68.75g

2) Mass of…