Question about the 2nd law of thermodynamics (heat loss)

In summary, the conversation discusses the principles of the first and second laws of thermodynamics, specifically in relation to a closed system of a cylinder filled with ideal gas and a movable piston. The first law states that the change in heat energy (dQ) is equal to the change in internal energy (dU) plus the work done (dW). Meanwhile, the second law states that while mechanical energy can be fully converted into heat energy, the reverse is not possible. The question posed is how heat energy will be lost in a closed system with constant temperature, where dU is equal to 0 and dQ is equal to dU plus dW. It is mentioned that heat energy can be fully converted to work, but not through
  • #1
Shovon00000
3
0
Thread moved from the technical forums to the schoolwork forums
Assume that a closed system of cylindar filled with ideal gas consists of a movable piston.We know from the 1st law dQ=dU +dW.
According to the 2nd law mechanical energy can be totally converted into heat energy but heat energy cannot be converted completely into mechanical energy.The question is"If we give heat to the cylindar and keep the temperature constant how will some of the heat energy be lost ?(here dU=0,and we know dQ=dU+dW)
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
You can completely convert heat energy to work. You just can't do it by operating the system in a cycle.
 
  • Like
Likes TSny

What is the 2nd law of thermodynamics?

The 2nd law of thermodynamics states that in any energy conversion or transformation, the total entropy of the system and its surroundings will always increase.

How does the 2nd law of thermodynamics relate to heat loss?

The 2nd law of thermodynamics explains that heat will naturally flow from a hotter object to a colder object, resulting in heat loss. This is because the hotter object has a higher energy state and will naturally want to reach equilibrium with the colder object.

Why is heat loss important to understand?

Heat loss is important to understand because it affects many natural processes, such as heat transfer in living organisms, energy efficiency in machines, and global climate change. Understanding heat loss can help us find ways to conserve energy and improve efficiency.

How can we reduce heat loss?

There are several ways to reduce heat loss, including insulation, sealing air leaks, using energy-efficient materials, and optimizing the design of buildings and machines. By reducing heat loss, we can decrease energy consumption and save money on heating and cooling costs.

Are there any exceptions to the 2nd law of thermodynamics?

While the 2nd law of thermodynamics is a fundamental principle in physics, there are some exceptions or apparent violations in certain situations. For example, in a highly ordered and isolated system, entropy may decrease temporarily, but this is only possible if there is an increase in entropy in the surroundings. Overall, the 2nd law of thermodynamics holds true in most cases and is a crucial concept in understanding energy and heat transfer.

Similar threads

Entropy and the Helmholtz Free Energy of a Mass-Piston System
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
The Mystery of Heat Loss: Examining Ice Melting Without Heat Loss
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
995
Question about the thermodynamic temperature scale
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
212
How Does Newton's Law of Cooling Affect Heat Loss Calculations?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
Thermodynamics Problem: Reversible and Irreversible Processes
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
929
Thermodynamics: Internal Energy, Heat and Work Problem
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
899
Entropy and the Laws of Thermodynamics
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
729
Understanding Internal Energy: Exploring the Role of Volume in Thermodynamics
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
Piston Between Two Ideal Gases
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
21
Views
1K
Why is temperature constant after gas has expanded?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
33
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top