Essential Formulas
These two formulas are your best mates for energy calculations, and they're easier than they look!
For latent heat: E = mL. This calculates the energy needed to change state - like melting ice or boiling water. Just multiply the mass by the specific latent heat value (which you'll usually be given in exams).
For specific heat capacity: ΔE = mcΔθ. This works out energy changes when temperature actually changes. The Δ symbols just mean "change in" - so it's change in energy equals mass × specific heat capacity × change in temperature.
The key difference? Use latent heat when stuff is melting, boiling, or freezing (temperature stays the same). Use specific heat capacity when things are warming up or cooling down (temperature actually changes).
These formulas pop up constantly in physics exams, so practise rearranging them to find different variables. Cover up what you want to find, and the rest shows you the calculation!
Exam Tip: Always check your units match the formula - convert grams to kilograms if needed!