Calculate Hc for N Butane

The heat capacity (HC) of n-butane is a fundamental property used in thermodynamics and chemical engineering. This calculator helps you determine the heat capacity of n-butane (C₄H₁₀) under standard conditions.

What is Heat Capacity (HC)?

Heat capacity is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of a substance by one degree Celsius. It's typically measured in joules per kelvin (J/K) or calories per gram per degree Celsius (cal/g°C).

For n-butane, heat capacity can be calculated using the molar heat capacity formula, which accounts for the number of atoms and their arrangement in the molecule.

Key Points

Heat capacity is different from specific heat capacity (which is per unit mass)
Molar heat capacity is often used in stoichiometric calculations
Temperature range affects heat capacity values

Formula for n-Butane HC

The molar heat capacity (Cₚ) of n-butane can be calculated using the following formula:

Formula

Cₚ = Σ (number of atoms of each element × atomic heat capacity of that element)

For n-butane (C₄H₁₀):

Cₚ = (4 × C atomic heat capacity) + (10 × H atomic heat capacity)

The atomic heat capacities are:

Carbon (C): 8.517 J/mol·K
Hydrogen (H): 28.836 J/mol·K

Therefore, the molar heat capacity of n-butane is approximately 140.6 J/mol·K.

How to Use This Calculator

Enter the number of moles of n-butane (default is 1 mole)
Select the temperature range (standard or custom)
Click "Calculate" to get the heat capacity
View the result and chart visualization

Assumptions

Standard temperature range: 25°C to 30°C
Pressure: 1 atm
Phase: Liquid (for standard conditions)

Worked Example

Let's calculate the heat capacity for 2 moles of n-butane at standard conditions:

Step	Calculation	Result
1. Calculate molar heat capacity	(4 × 8.517) + (10 × 28.836)	140.6 J/mol·K
2. Multiply by number of moles	140.6 × 2	281.2 J/K

The heat capacity for 2 moles of n-butane is 281.2 joules per kelvin.

FAQ

What units does this calculator use?

This calculator uses joules per kelvin (J/K) for heat capacity and moles for the quantity of n-butane. You can convert these units as needed for your specific application.

How does temperature affect n-butane's heat capacity?

Heat capacity values are typically measured at specific temperature ranges. For precise applications, you may need to consult temperature-specific data or use more complex thermodynamic models.

Can this calculator handle different phases of n-butane?

This calculator provides standard values for liquid n-butane. For other phases (gas or solid), you would need to use different heat capacity values specific to those phases.