Principle of Mixtures
The heat conservation principle stating that in an isolated system, heat lost by hotter components equals heat gained by cooler components until equilibrium is reached.
Governing formula
∑ Q = 0 ⇒ ∑ m_i c_i (T_f - T_i) = 0
SI unit
J
In depth
Serves as the foundation for experimental calorimetry under isolated system constraints.
Examples in the real world
Mixing 100g of 80°C hot water with 100g of 20°C cold water resulting in a final equilibrium temperature of 50°C.