Change in entropy of a resistor

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the temperature increase and entropy change of a thermally insulated resistor with given parameters. The power dissipated by the resistor is calculated using the formula P=I²R, leading to a temperature increase from the initial 20°C. There is a correction regarding the specific heat capacity, which should be in J/(kg-K) rather than J/(g-K), affecting the calculations. A participant suggests that the entropy change, initially calculated as ΔS = 0.273 J/K, may need reevaluation due to this unit discrepancy. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of using correct units in thermodynamic calculations.
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Homework Statement


Consider a thermally insulated resistor with resistance R=20 Ω and mass m=5.0 g. The resistor is made of a material with specific heat capacity c=850 J/(g-K) and carries a current of 2.0 A for a time period of 1.0 s.

a) Calculate the increase in the temperature of the resistor if it has initial temperature Tin=20oC. Recall that the power dissipated by a resistor is given by P=I²R.

b) Determine the increase in the resistor's entropy over the period that the current passes through it.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


My solution is in the attachment. I just wanted somebody to have a look at it and let me know if it looks okay since I don't feel too sure about it.
 

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I note that you used 50g for your mass in the final calculation rather than 5g...
 
gneill said:
I note that you used 50g for your mass in the final calculation rather than 5g...
oh woops, the answer should have been ΔS = 0.273 J/K
 
I think part (b) is a trick question but I'm going to wait for other responses if any.
As a hint I don't agree with the computed answer in post 3.
 
Your specific heat capacity is unrealistic. It should be per kilo not gram.
 
alchemistoff said:
Your specific heat capacity is unrealistic. It should be per kilo not gram.
Yes, the approach is correct, but the heat capacity is off by a factor of 1000.
 
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