Academic First Law Of Thermodynamics Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a problem related to the open-system version of the First Law of Thermodynamics, specifically using a time-dependent differential equation. The key equation presented is $$\frac{d(nu)}{dt}=-\dot{W}+h\frac{dn}{dt}$$, which simplifies to $$0=-\dot{W}+V\frac{dP}{dt}$$ under constant temperature conditions. Participants clarify the meaning of "n" as the number of moles and discuss the disappearance of the term $$u\frac{dn}{dt}$$, which cancels from both sides of the equation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding these thermodynamic principles for accurate problem-solving.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the First Law of Thermodynamics
  • Familiarity with differential equations
  • Knowledge of open-system thermodynamics
  • Basic concepts of thermodynamic properties like internal energy and pressure
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the First Law of Thermodynamics in open systems
  • Learn about time-dependent differential equations in thermodynamics
  • Investigate the significance of terms like $$\dot{W}$$ and $$V\frac{dP}{dt}$$ in thermodynamic equations
  • Explore the relationship between mass flow and internal energy in thermodynamic systems
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in thermodynamics, engineers working on energy systems, and anyone involved in solving complex thermodynamic problems will benefit from this discussion.

Kolin101
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Homework Statement
An insulated tank of volume 12 m3 and with a valve was filled with perfect triatomic gas at pressure 10 bar. Initially the valve was closed. A paddle wheel was mounted inside the tank and was run by 20 kW engine. The paddle wheel was turn on and at the same time the exit valve was opened. The gas temperature was constant trough the whole process (due to very slow flow) and equal to 300 K.
Calculate the time needed to decrease the pressure in the tank to 5 bar.
Relevant Equations
dU=dQ-dW-dmh
Hi there. I have a problem solving above problem. How can I move on with my solution? It seems to me that I have proper approach but I'm just stuck with the energy equation ;/

Part of solution below:

Exam Questions Test 1 - Strona 1.jpg
 
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This involves application of the open-system version of the 1st law of thermodynamics, and, for this particular problem, should be formulated as a time-dependent differential equation (rather than using finite differences): $$\frac{d(nu)}{dt}=-\dot{W}+h\frac{dn}{dt}=-\dot{W}+u\frac{dn}{dt}+RT\frac{dn}{dt}$$For constant temperature, this reduces to: $$0=-\dot{W}+V\frac{dP}{dt}$$
 
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Thank You a lot, I've tried also this way but with no results. But to be sure, what for does the "n" stands for in your first equation?
 
Kolin101 said:
Thank You a lot, I've tried also this way but with no results. But to be sure, what for does the "n" stands for in your first equation?
Number of moles in tank at time t.
 
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ok I've figured out how would it look like in "my style solution" but I still have some questions. Why does the $$ u\frac{dn}{dt} $$
term disappears? when i rewrote it using mass instead of moles, the term
$$\frac{dm}{dt}CvT$$ seems to have a non zero value (there is a mass flowing out, that caries out internal energy at T=300K) and unfortunately Cv is not known either ;/

(new solution attached below the quote)
Chestermiller said:
This involves application of the open-system version of the 1st law of thermodynamics, and, for this particular problem, should be formulated as a time-dependent differential equation (rather than using finite differences): $$\frac{d(nu)}{dt}=-\dot{W}+h\frac{dn}{dt}=-\dot{W}+u\frac{dn}{dt}+RT\frac{dn}{dt}$$For constant temperature, this reduces to: $$0=-\dot{W}+V\frac{dP}{dt}$$

tank discharge.jpg
 
Kolin101 said:
ok I've figured out how would it look like in "my style solution" but I still have some questions. Why does the $$ u\frac{dn}{dt} $$
term disappears?
It cancels from both sides of the equation. What is the derivative of un with respect to t? On the rhs, h=u+Pv.
 

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