Constant Pressure Calorimetry

Because calorimetry is used to measure the heat of a reaction, it is a crucial part of thermodynamics. In order to measure the heat of a reaction, the reaction must be isolated so that no heat is lost to the environment. This is achieved by use of a calorimeter, which insulates the reaction to better contain heat. Coffee cups are often used as a quick and easy to make calorimeter for constant pressure. More sophisticated bomb calorimeters are built for use at constant volumes.

Contributors and Attributions

• Michelle Dube, Allison Billings (UCD), Rachel Morris (UCD), Ryan Starr (UCD)