Can heat transfer break an equilibrium?

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SUMMARY

Heat transfer occurs between objects at different temperatures, following the principle that heat flows from higher to lower temperatures. In the discussed scenario, a metal placed in a room at room temperature will not experience heat transfer if both the metal and the air are at the same temperature. The concept of heat capacity is relevant, but it does not affect the fundamental thermodynamic principle that dictates heat flow. Therefore, if the temperatures are equal, no heat transfer will take place, regardless of the materials involved.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic thermodynamics principles
  • Knowledge of heat transfer mechanisms
  • Familiarity with heat capacity concepts
  • Basic understanding of temperature measurement
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the laws of thermodynamics, particularly the first and second laws
  • Study heat transfer methods, including conduction, convection, and radiation
  • Explore the concept of heat capacity in different materials
  • Learn about thermal equilibrium and its implications in various systems
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, engineers working in thermal management, and anyone interested in understanding heat transfer and thermodynamic principles.

gaurav_samanta
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Here is one scenario:

I have placed a metal in my room which is at room temperature. Air has little much heat capacity and metals don't like to store heat. Would heat transfer occur? Whatif I set the temperature of both to a certain degree where it crosses heat capacity of metal but not of air?
 
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You can't set a temperature at a value where it crosses a heat capacity. It's kind of comparing apples to oranges.
Are you trying to imply the room and the metal bar won't reach a common temperature?
 
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What do you mean by temperature crossing heat capacity.
 
gaurav_samanta said:
I have placed a metal in my room which is at room temperature. Air has little much heat capacity and metals don't like to store heat. Would heat transfer occur?
Heat capacity aside, the really important principle of thermodynamics is not complicated --- heat flows from higher temperatures to lower temperatures. Put two objects (like metal and air) together with the same temperature, and no heat will flow between them, regardless of the materials they are made of.
 
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