Enthelpy for Constant Pressure and Constant Volume Systems?

In summary, the conversation discusses the usefulness of entropy in chemistry and the derivation of the equation ##dH=\delta Q_v##. The concept of constant volume work is also mentioned, and the physical meaning of the term ##dPV## is questioned. The response explains the Gibbs relation and how the assumption of ##\text{d}S=0## can be used to model certain systems, but in reality, heat transfer cannot be neglected.
  • #1
kq6up
368
13
I understand why entropy (a state function) is very useful in chemistry. Since most chemistry systems are at constant pressure, ##\Delta H=Q_v## from the derivation below:

##H=U+PV##
##dH=dU+dPV+PdV##
##dU=\delta Q-\delta W##
## dU=\delta Q-PdV##
## dH=\delta Q+dPV##
##dPV=0##
## dH=\delta Q_v##

However, for constant volume work is not done, so that seems to leave this pesky ##dPV## term. That is:

##dH=\delta Q_p+dPV## What is the meaning of this term. ##PdV## is obviously microscopic work, but what the other term resulting from the product rule means physically escapes me.

Thanks,
Chris
 
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  • #2
Use the following logic,
$$ \text{d}H = \delta\text{Q} + v\,\text{d}P $$
knowing that,
$$ \text{d}S = \frac{\delta\text{Q}}{T} $$
rearrange to get the Gibbs relation
$$ \text{d}H = T\text{d}S+ v\,\text{d}P $$
Assume boldly $$\text{d}S=0$$ And you get reversibly adiabatic shaft work.
$$ \text{d}H = v\,\text{d}P $$
 
  • #3
I follow the math, but can you give me a physical example of a system that reversibly does shaft work.

Thanks,
Chris
 
  • #4
Well before I answer this we must be very careful in this assumption $$\text{d}S=0$$ Many physical systems such as turbines, compressors and pumps are very well insulated therefore it is possible to consider any heat transfer negligible and ultimately they may be modeled as isentropic.

However in reality, due to many factors there are heat losses in the system therefore the assumption $$\text{d}S=0$$ does not hold. The concept is still usable in modeling, but you would have to account for the heat transfer somehow.
 

1. What is enthalpy and how is it different for constant pressure and constant volume systems?

Enthalpy is a thermodynamic property that represents the total energy of a system. It is different for constant pressure and constant volume systems because in a constant pressure system, work can be done on or by the system, while in a constant volume system, the volume remains constant and no work is done.

2. How is enthalpy affected by changes in temperature and pressure?

Enthalpy is directly proportional to temperature and pressure, meaning that as temperature and pressure increase, so does enthalpy. However, the exact relationship depends on the specific system and the phase of matter involved.

3. What is the significance of enthalpy in chemical reactions?

Enthalpy is important in chemical reactions because it represents the amount of heat transferred during the reaction. This can help determine the energy efficiency of a reaction and can also be used to calculate the change in enthalpy (ΔH) for a given reaction.

4. How is the enthalpy of a system calculated for constant pressure and constant volume processes?

The enthalpy of a system at constant pressure can be calculated using the equation H = U + PV, where U is the internal energy of the system, P is the pressure, and V is the volume. For a constant volume process, the equation becomes H = U, as there is no work being done and therefore no change in volume.

5. Can enthalpy be negative?

Yes, enthalpy can be negative. This usually occurs when there is a decrease in temperature or pressure, resulting in a decrease in enthalpy. Negative enthalpy can also indicate an exothermic reaction, where heat is released from the system.

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