Final answer:
James Prescott Joule's experiments disproved the caloric theory by demonstrating the direct conversion of mechanical energy into thermal energy.
Explanation:
James Prescott Joule's experiments to determine the mechanical equivalent of heat provided evidence that challenged the caloric theory. By using a system of weights to stir water and measuring the mechanical energy deficit, he established the direct conversion of mechanical energy into thermal energy, thus disproving the idea of caloric as a weightless fluid.
Learn more about caloric theory here:
https://brainly.com/question/29615563
