Question

From a height of 35.0 m, a 1.25 kg bird dives (from rest) into a small fish tank containing 50.0 kg of water.

What is the maximum rise in temperature of the water if the bird gives it all of its mechanical energy?


(delta)T= ?? degrees C

Answer 1

First compute the mechanical energy that is converted to heat, Q.

Q = (1/2) M g H
H = 35 m
g = 9.8 m/s^2
M = 1.25 kg. Q will be in Joules if you use these units. Divide the number of Joules by 4.18 to get calories

To get the delta T, use
Q = M(water) * C * (delta T)
C = 1.00*10^3 calories/kg C

Answer 2

I'm not getting the correct answer.. this is my work:

Q=214.374/4.18 =51.286

51.286=(50)(10^3)T
T=.001

Do I need to convert the T to something else? It says to have it in C, which I think it's already in...