The formula to calculate Latent Heat (Q) is:
\[ Q = m \times L \]
Where:
Latent heat refers to the amount of heat absorbed or released by a substance during a phase change, such as from a solid to a liquid or a liquid to a gas, without a change in temperature. This energy is used to break or form the intermolecular bonds in the substance, allowing it to transition between phases. Unlike specific heat, which causes a temperature change, latent heat is solely associated with phase transitions.
Let's consider an example:
Using the formula to calculate Latent Heat:
\[ Q = 2 \times 2260 = 4520 \, \text{Joules} \]
This means that 4,520 Joules of energy is required for 2 kg of water to turn into steam.
