Specific heat unit conversion: 1 BTU per pound per °F is equivalent to how many kcal per kilogram per °C?

Introduction / Context:
Thermal property data appear in different unit systems. Converting specific heat capacities between FPS and SI/metric units is a routine task in energy balances.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• 1 BTU = 1055.06 J; 1 kcal = 4184 J.
• 1 lb = 0.453592 kg.
• Temperature interval conversion: 1°F = 5/9 °C.

Concept / Approach:
Start from 1 BTU/lb·°F and convert numerator (energy), then denominator (mass and temperature interval) to kcal/kg·°C.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Express in SI: 1 BTU/lb·°F = 1055.06 J / (0.453592 kg * 5/9 °C).Compute denominator factor: 0.453592 * 5/9 ≈ 0.252.Value ≈ 1055.06 / 0.252 ≈ 4187 J/kg·°C.Convert to kcal/kg·°C: 4187 / 4184 ≈ 1.00.

Verification / Alternative check:
Common reference: 1 BTU/lb·°F ≈ 4.186 kJ/kg·°C ≈ 1 kcal/kg·°C.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Values like 2.42, 1.987, or 4.97 are inconsistent with the precise conversion and would severely misstate heat loads.

Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to convert °F to °C intervals; mixing mass conversions.

Final Answer:
1