This memory aid covers Memory Aid within Specific Latent Heat for GCSE Physics. Revise Specific Latent Heat in Particle Model for GCSE Physics with 13 exam-style questions and 30 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 8 of 12 in this topic. Use it for quick recall, then test yourself straight afterwards so the memory aid becomes usable in an answer.
🧠 Memory Aid
Remembering the two types:
- Fusion = Freezing/melting (solid-liquid boundary) — think "F for Floor" (the lower level)
- Vaporisation = Very hot (liquid-gas boundary) — think "V for Very high energy"
The equation E = mL: Think "Enormous mass x Latent heat = Enormous energy." Or use the triangle: E on top, m bottom-left, L bottom-right. Cover what you want to find.
Why steam burns more: Steam at 100°C → skin → condenses → releases 2,260,000 J/kg (latent heat) PLUS cools down further. Boiling water only cools down — no latent heat released. So steam is the nastier one.
Practice questions for Specific Latent Heat
What is specific latent heat?
During a state change, energy is being supplied to a substance but the temperature does not change. Explain where this energy goes.