According to the International System, what is the quantity of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 gram by 1 degree Celsius?

The quantity of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 gram of water by 1 degree Celsius is known as a calorie. In the context of the International System of Units (SI), this is directly related to joules. Specifically, 1 calorie is equivalent to approximately 4.2 joules. Therefore, when considering the heat capacity of water, the correct value is 4.2 joules for raising the temperature of 1 gram of water by 1 degree Celsius.

This conversion is fundamental in thermodynamics and is vital for calculations involving heat transfer, energy changes, and related processes in various scientific and engineering fields. The value is based on extensive experimentation and reflects the specific heat capacity of water, which is commonly used because of its importance in biological and environmental systems. Understanding this concept helps in practical applications such as cooking, meteorology, and various engineering systems where temperature control is essential.