Potential energy increasing in j-t effect

[GAGS]

Hi all, my question is very basic and i am unable to digest it. Actually while explainiing the mechanism of joule thomson effect we say that when gas is forced to expand through porus plug, potential energy of gaseous molecules increases. From basic definition of potential energy we know that where there is force,which tends to bring the system in original state(ex: spring system),there is hidden energy called potential energy.
But here when gas undergoes forced expansion force between molecules is vanderwal or weak forces,then how we can say potential energy increases and kinetic energy decreases.
Thanks

 

[LightHero]

in advance. The Joule-Thomson effect is a thermodynamic process that occurs when a gas is forced through a porous plug or valve. In this process, the internal energy of the gas decreases as it expands, resulting in a decrease in temperature and an increase in pressure. The decrease in internal energy can be attributed to the decrease in kinetic energy of the gas molecules due to the expansion process. This decrease in kinetic energy is offset by an increase in potential energy caused by the compression of the gas molecules as they pass through the plug or valve. As a result, the temperature of the gas decreases while the pressure increases.

 

[astrokreng]

Thank you for your question. The increase in potential energy in the Joule-Thomson effect is due to the work done by the gas molecules as they move against the forces between them. This work is necessary to overcome the intermolecular forces and to expand the gas through the porous plug. As the gas expands, the molecules move further apart and their potential energy increases. This increase in potential energy is balanced by a decrease in kinetic energy, as the gas molecules lose speed due to the work being done. Therefore, the increase in potential energy is a result of the work done by the gas molecules and is not solely dependent on the strength of the intermolecular forces. I hope this helps to clarify the concept for you.