Investigation of the mechanical equivalent of heat using aluminum and brass cylinders

Abstract

This study explores the mechanical equivalent of heat through controlled experiments using aluminum and brass cylinders. By mechanically rotating these cylinders against a friction band, the conversion of mechanical energy into heat is quantified, demonstrating a fundamental thermodynamic process. The experiment is designed to calculate the specific thermal capacities of the metals and evaluate the efficiency of energy transformation. Results validate the concept that mechanical energy, when converted through friction, becomes thermal energy—affirming the principles outlined in the conservation of energy. This work not only reinforces classical thermodynamics but also enhances our understanding of material properties under thermal stress, offering insights applicable to industrial applications and renewable energy technology. The findings underscore the practical implications of energy transformations in material science and engineering, contributing to the development of more efficient thermal management systems in various technological fields.