Examples of State Functions in Thermodynamics

In summary, state functions in thermodynamics are functions that only depend on the present state of a system, not the processes it undergoes. Examples of state functions include internal energy, enthalpy, entropy, and various other thermodynamic properties such as temperature and density. These functions can be either extensive (mass-dependent) or intensive (non-additive).
  • #1
ausdreamer
23
0
I'm curious to find more examples (if they exist) of state functions in thermodynamics other than the internal energy of a gas.

Is the pressure, volume and temperature of a gas all state functions of the system?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
State function of a system is in thermodynamics any function that does not depend on the processes undergone by the system but only on the present state. In addition to internal energy are state functions enthalpy H, entropy S, isochoric-isothermic potential F, isobaric-isothermic potential [tex]\Phi[/tex], all of them extensive (mass-dependent, additive) functions; temperature, density, viscosity etc. (I guess also pressure) in a thermodynamic system are intensive (non-additive) state functions.
(quoted from B.Javorskij, A.Detlaf "Manuale di fisica", translated by myself from Italian)
 

What are state functions?

State functions are properties of a system that depend only on its current state, and not on how it reached that state. They are independent of the path taken to reach the state, and only depend on the initial and final states of the system.

What are some examples of state functions?

Examples of state functions include temperature, pressure, volume, internal energy, and enthalpy. These properties are all dependent on the current state of a system, and can be used to describe its state without needing to know the history or path taken to reach that state.

Why are state functions important?

State functions are important because they allow us to simplify the description of a system. By only considering the current state of a system, we can avoid having to track and analyze the complex processes that occur within the system. This makes it easier to understand and predict the behavior of a system.

How are state functions different from path functions?

State functions are different from path functions in that they do not depend on the path taken to reach a particular state. Path functions, on the other hand, do depend on the path and describe the changes that occur as a system moves from one state to another. Examples of path functions include work, heat, and energy.

Can a state function be changed?

No, state functions cannot be changed. They are intrinsic properties of a system that are determined by its current state and cannot be altered by external factors. However, the value of a state function can change as the system moves from one state to another.

Similar threads

Replies
7
Views
783
Replies
5
Views
518
  • Classical Physics
Replies
3
Views
536
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Classical Physics
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
0
Views
489
Replies
2
Views
504
  • Classical Physics
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
549
Back
Top