Bomb calorimeter

Definition

A bomb calorimeter is a device used to measure the heat of combustion of a sample. It operates at constant volume and provides precise measurements of energy changes in chemical reactions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bomb calorimeters operate at constant volume, which differentiates them from other types of calorimeters.
2. The inner chamber, where the sample is placed, is called the bomb and it is sealed to ensure no gases escape.
3. Measurements from a bomb calorimeter are used to calculate the enthalpy change ($\Delta H$) for combustion reactions.
4. The water surrounding the bomb absorbs the heat released during combustion, allowing for temperature measurement and energy calculation.
5. Corrections are often applied for the heat capacity of the calorimeter itself to improve accuracy.

Review Questions

• What type of calorimeter operates at constant volume?
• Why is it important that the bomb in a bomb calorimeter is sealed during an experiment?
• How does a bomb calorimeter help in calculating the enthalpy change ($\Delta H$) for a reaction?

Related terms

Calorimetry:

The science of measuring heat based on observing temperature changes when a body absorbs or discharges energy as heat.

$\Delta H$ (Enthalpy Change): The change in enthalpy during a chemical reaction, representing the difference between the enthalpy of products and reactants.

Heat Capacity:

The amount of heat required to raise the temperature of an object or substance by one degree Celsius.