The device used to determine the heat of reaction experimentally is called a calorimeter.
A calorimeter is a tool designed to measure the amount of heat absorbed or released during a chemical reaction or a physical process. It is commonly used in chemistry laboratories to determine the heat changes associated with chemical reactions, such as the heat of reaction.
The principle behind a calorimeter is that the heat released or absorbed by a reaction is transferred to the surrounding environment, which includes the substances inside the calorimeter. By measuring the temperature change of the substances inside the calorimeter, the heat of reaction can be determined.
A simple calorimeter consists of a container, often made of a good insulator, such as Styrofoam, to minimize heat exchange with the surroundings. Inside the container, the reactants are mixed, and the temperature change is monitored with a thermometer.
During a chemical reaction, if heat is absorbed from the surroundings, the temperature inside the calorimeter will decrease. Conversely, if heat is released to the surroundings, the temperature inside the calorimeter will increase. By measuring the temperature change and knowing the specific heat capacity of the substances involved, the heat of reaction can be calculated.
Therefore, a calorimeter is essential for determining the heat of reaction experimentally, allowing scientists to understand the energy changes associated with chemical reactions.