Differential Scanning Calorimetry

This is just a quick post on something that was mentioned briefly in lecture. I strongly doubt that any type of calculation based question would be asked on a midterm, but perhaps a theory question could show up.

Differential Scanning Calorimetry is when you compare an unknown sample with a reference sample of known heat capacity at constant pressure. You choose a reference with a well-defined heat capacity over the range of temperatures scanned. Also, you choose a reference that will not undergo a phrase transition, as that will distort the results in regards to the sample. The differential scanning calorimeter is used to measure heat flow in the substances in either exothermic and endothermic reactions. It has the ability to measure phase transition temperatures and enthalpies, which makes it useful to create phase transition diagrams and the like.

Wasn't that terribly informative?