Copper Can 75 x 100mm (250-300ml)

Uses of a Copper Can in Laboratory

1. Calorimetry (Measuring Heat)

   • Copper cans are commonly used as calorimeters because copper is:

     • A good conductor of heat (quickly reaches thermal equilibrium).

     • Chemically stable with water and many solutions.

   • Example: Mixing hot and cold water to determine specific heat capacity.

2. Specific Heat Capacity Experiments

   • To determine the specific heat capacity of metals or liquids.

   • Copper can itself has a known, relatively low heat capacity, so it doesn’t significantly distort results.

3. Latent Heat Experiments

   • Used to measure latent heat of fusion of ice or latent heat of vaporization of water.

   • Ice is placed inside the copper can, and the heat absorbed is measured.

4. As a Container in Physics/Chemistry Practical Work

   • Sometimes used for holding liquids during heating, cooling, or weighing in thermal experiments.

Why Copper?

• High thermal conductivity → ensures even distribution of heat.

• Low specific heat → minimizes error in heat transfer experiments.

• Non-reactive with water (does not corrode quickly like iron).

• Durable and easy to clean.