Latent Heat Calculator
Enter any two of Q, m and L to solve for the third. Use a consistent energy, mass and specific-latent-heat unit set.
A QUICK WALKTHROUGH
How to use this tool
- Leave exactly one of heat Q, mass m or specific latent heat L blank.
- Enter the other two values with consistent units; use a negative Q for heat released if your sign convention requires it.
- Review the result and the phase-change boundary notes.
Formula and source
Latent heat is the energy involved in a phase change at constant temperature: Q = mL, where Q is heat, m is mass and L is specific latent heat. OpenStax Physics, 11.3 Phase Change and Latent Heat: https://openstax.org/books/physics/pages/11-3-phase-change-and-latent-heat .
Scope
Enter any two variables; the calculator solves the third. A positive Q denotes heat absorbed and a negative Q denotes heat released under the displayed sign convention. No material defaults or property database are used. This applies to an isothermal, single-phase-change boundary; it does not model sensible heating, temperature variation, mixtures or multiple transitions.
Local processing
All calculations run in this browser. Inputs are not uploaded or stored.
GOOD TO KNOW
Common questions
What does the sign of Q mean?
Positive Q means the system absorbs heat; negative Q means it releases heat. Choose and keep one sign convention.
Does the calculator know a material’s latent heat?
No. Enter L from a trusted source for the material and phase transition.
Can I use it while temperature changes?
Only for the phase change portion treated as isothermal. Sensible heat needs a separate Q = mcΔT calculation.