IB DP Physics Investigating Specific Heat Capacity Pre-Lab Notes 2026

Physics Investigating Specific Heat Capacity: Pre-Lab Notes, Teacher Notes and Technician Guide

This pre-lab resource prepares students for a practical investigation into specific heat capacity. It provides structured guidance on the core physics ideas, apparatus use, measurement methods and safety considerations students need before laboratory work begins.

Keeping it Simple
This pack introduces the investigation in a clear, manageable way. It focuses on what students must understand and do in the lab: how electrical energy is supplied, how temperature change is measured accurately, and how results are processed to determine specific heat capacity. The aim is to reduce uncertainty before practical work starts.

What’s Included in This Pre-Lab Pack

1. Student Pre-Lab Notes

Clear explanation of specific heat capacity and energy transfer in heating processes

Diagram of a typical setup (heater, power supply, thermometer or probe, insulation, stirrer)

Step-by-step outline of the method and how to record readings systematically

Guidance on identifying independent, dependent and control variables

Calculation support using electrical energy (E = VIt) and
𝑐

𝐸
𝑚
Δ
𝑇
c=
mΔT
E
​

Sample data table layout and prompts for plotting temperature vs time graphs

Notes on uncertainty and common error sources (heat loss, probe lag, insulation limits, poor stirring)

Safety reminders for hot equipment, hot liquids and electrical devices

Short exam tips linked to energy transfer, units and data handling

1. Teacher Notes
   Concise background theory and key points for a pre-lab briefing

Common misconceptions (heat vs temperature, assuming no energy losses)

Suggestions for helping students justify method choices and improvements

Differentiation ideas for varied confidence in maths, graphs and calculations

Assessment opportunities based on processing, reasoning and evaluation

1. Technician Preparation Guide
   Equipment list (heater, thermometer/probe, balance, insulation, power supply, ammeter, voltmeter)

Setup and station organisation notes for efficient lab management

Health and safety reminders for electrical equipment and hot liquids

Preparation guidance to ensure stable temperature readings

Troubleshooting tips for small temperature changes or inconsistent values

Audio Summary for Enhanced Learning
Short podcast-style audio summary included

Explains the aim of the practical, the setup and the key calculations

Highlights important safety and measurement points

Useful for pre-lab preparation or quick revision

Ideal For
IB DP Physics classes completing thermal physics practical work

Students who benefit from structured pre-lab guidance

Teachers and technicians who want consistent, clear setup information

This resource supports practical physics preparation by emphasising clarity, safe practice, and the development of reliable measurement and analysis skills.