Which of the following substances has a specific heat capacity?

The specific heat capacity of a substance is a measure of how much heat energy is required to raise the temperature of a unit mass of that substance by one degree Celsius. This property is essential for understanding how different materials respond to heat.

Pure water is notably known for its relatively high specific heat capacity, which makes it an effective coolant and plays a crucial role in regulating temperature in biological and environmental systems. At 4 °C, water has a specific heat capacity of 4.18 J/g·°C, which is higher than that of many other substances. This property contributes to the moderating effects of water on climate and the ability of organisms to maintain stable internal temperatures.

While air, gold, and diamond also have specific heat capacities, the question highlights pure water's significance due to its unique role and high value in biological and physical processes. Therefore, it stands out as a prime example of a substance with a specific heat capacity that plays vital roles in various scientific and practical applications.