What is the difference between flow energy and boundary work?

Thread starter Carbon273
Start date Mar 24, 2019
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Boundary Difference Energy Flow Heat Mass Thermodyamics Work

In summary, flow energy is the kinetic energy of a fluid as it moves through a system, while boundary work is the work done by a system as it changes in volume against a constant pressure. These two forms of energy cannot be directly converted into each other, but they can be converted into other types of energy. The efficiency of a system depends on the amount of flow energy and boundary work involved, with a higher amount of flow energy and lower amount of boundary work typically leading to a more efficient system. Both flow energy and boundary work can be measured separately using different methods to determine their impact on a system.

Mar 24, 2019

Carbon273

What is the difference between the two? Also, as another question, for enthalpy, is it correct to define it to be the sum of internal energy and flow energy or is there another understanding for it?

Thanks in advance

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Mar 24, 2019

Chestermiller

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I hate the term "flow energy."

1. What is flow energy?

Flow energy is the energy possessed by a fluid as it flows through a system. It is a form of kinetic energy and is related to the fluid's mass, velocity, and height above a reference point.

2. What is boundary work?

Boundary work is the work done by a system as it expands or contracts against an external pressure. It is a form of mechanical work and is related to the change in volume of the system and the external pressure.

3. How are flow energy and boundary work different?

Flow energy is a form of kinetic energy possessed by a fluid, while boundary work is a form of mechanical work done by a system. Flow energy is related to the fluid's motion, while boundary work is related to the change in volume of the system.

4. Can flow energy be converted into boundary work?

Yes, flow energy can be converted into boundary work through a process called a turbine. The fluid's kinetic energy is used to turn the blades of the turbine, which in turn does work against an external pressure.

5. Why is it important to understand the difference between flow energy and boundary work?

Understanding the difference between flow energy and boundary work is important in many engineering and scientific applications, such as designing efficient energy systems and analyzing fluid dynamics. It also helps in understanding the different forms of energy and how they can be converted from one form to another.