A question on second law of thermodynamics

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the change of entropy for a system involving a monatomic perfect gas undergoing heating and compression. The original poster presents a scenario where the gas transitions from 298K and 1atm to 398K and 5atm, and expresses confusion regarding the appropriate equations to use for entropy change.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the equation for entropy change under constant volume conditions, questioning why the model answer uses a different approach involving both heat capacities and volume ratios. Participants discuss the implications of changing pressure and temperature on volume, and the appropriateness of substituting between different thermodynamic variables.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in clarifying concepts related to the ideal gas law and the relationships between pressure, volume, and temperature. Some guidance has been provided regarding the nature of the processes involved (isobaric and isothermal), and the original poster expresses a better understanding of the concepts after receiving feedback.

Contextual Notes

The original poster expresses uncertainty about their understanding of thermodynamic principles and the relationships between different state variables in the context of entropy calculations. There is a recognition of the complexity of the problem due to simultaneous changes in multiple variables.

ky92
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Homework Statement


calculate the change of entropy (for the system) when 3 moles of a monatomic perfect gas, for which Cp,m = (5/2) R, is heated and compressed from 298K and 1atm to 398K and 5atm.

ans: -22.1 JK-1

Homework Equations


for an ideal gas, Pv=nRT
for iso-choric condition, delta S = Cv ln(T2/T1)

The Attempt at a Solution


as both the P and T increase, by Pv=nRT v should be constant at this case
so i thought i should use Cv ln(T2/T1)

however the model answer is that it uses nCp,m ln(T2/T1) + nRln(V2/V1)

i don't know which part of my concept is wrong...
pls help, thank you!
 
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Hi ky92, welcome to PF. Just because P and T are changing doesn't mean that V will remain constant! All three could change simultaneously. When this happens, it's common to simplify the problem by assuming that two simpler processes (isobaric and isothermal, for example) occur in sequence to produce the desired final state.
 
thank you!

by the way
why couldn't i replace (V2/V1) by (T2/T1) in this case? (but we can replace V2/V1 by P1/P2)
i don't really get it!

how to decide whether we should substitute between P-V or P-T/V-T?
 
In an isothermal process on an ideal gas, V_2/V_1=P_1/P_2\neq T_1/T_2\left(=1\right). You can show this with the ideal gas law.
 
Mapes said:
In an isothermal process on an ideal gas, V_2/V_1=P_1/P_2\neq T_1/T_2\left(=1\right). You can show this with the ideal gas law.

oh i get it now
it's just because we assume the reaction is an isobaric, then isothermal process
so T is constant for the second part i.e. in nR ln(V2/V1)

thanks!
you help me a lot
i am bad in physics :P
 
You got it. Hey, nobody's born knowing thermodynamics; keep at it.
 

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