Bomb Calorimeter Essay

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In calorimetry, in order to measure the amount of heat released or absorbed in reactions, calorimeter is used. The readings are in calories or Btu (British thermal units). There are many types of calorimeters:
• Adiabatic Calorimeters
• Reaction Calorimeters
• Bomb Calorimeters (constant volume calorimeters)
• Constant Pressure Calorimeters
• Differential Scanning Calorimeters

Bomb Calorimeter

Bomb calorimeter is a constant volume calorimeter used in bomb calorimetry. It measures the internal energy change of a particular reaction. It is able to withstand large amount of pressure while the reaction is being measured. In combustion reactions, reactants are placed in the bomb, an explosive-proof steel container, whose volume if fixed before being submerged in water bath. …show more content…

Since the reaction is exothermic, the Hc is negative.

Uses of bomb calorimeter

• Thermodynamic Studies: It measures the amount of heat given out during combustion, enthalpy changes, reaction enthalpy, heat involved in reaction as well as formation.
• Educational Training: Calorimetry courses are available in various departments in universities and some high school.
• Solid and Liquid Fuel Testing: it is used to examine the calorific value of fuels since they must meet the standard for calorific value, quality and purity.
• Waste and Refuse Disposal: it is commonly used in industries that use dangerous waste as an alternative for fuels in order to determine whether they meet the regulation, safe and suitable for usage.
• Food and Metabolic Studies: It is used to determine the product’s calorie content as well as the effects it has on consumers.
• Propellant and Explosive Testing: It is used to test the heat of detonation. Propellant burn at a constant rate. However, explosives are unpredictable and exert immense amount of pressure. Therefore, calorimetry help identify information of the processes.

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