Change in internal energy during water vaporization

In summary, the first law of thermodynamics states that dQ = dU + dW and dU can be calculated using the equation nCvdT. However, when water vaporizes at 100°C, the change in internal energy is not zero because it is a change of phase and the differential heat capacity equation does not apply. It can be seen as a discrete change in heat capacity with temperature and the 540 cal/gram value is mainly due to the change in internal energy.
  • #1
Ian Baughman
36
2
According to the first law of thermodynamics,

dQ = dU + dW and you can find dU = nCvdT
If this is the case then when water at 100°C vaporizes to steam at 100°C shouldn't the change in internal energy be zero because it is dependent on temperature change?

 
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  • #2
It's a change of phase at that temperature, so that the differential heat capacity equation is not applicable. It could be looked at as a discrete jump in the heat capacity as a function of temperature. I believe the 540 cal/gram number is a ## \Delta H ##, but most of this is due to the ## \Delta U ##.
 

1. What is the definition of "change in internal energy during water vaporization"?

The change in internal energy during water vaporization refers to the amount of energy that is absorbed or released when water changes from a liquid to a gas state. This process is also known as evaporation.

2. How does the change in temperature affect the internal energy during water vaporization?

The change in temperature directly affects the internal energy during water vaporization. As the temperature increases, the molecules in the liquid water gain more kinetic energy and are able to break free from the liquid phase and become water vapor. This absorption of energy leads to an increase in the internal energy of the system.

3. What factors influence the change in internal energy during water vaporization?

The main factors that influence the change in internal energy during water vaporization are temperature, pressure, and the surface area of the liquid. Higher temperatures and lower pressures will lead to a larger change in internal energy, while a larger surface area of the liquid will increase the rate of vaporization.

4. How is the change in internal energy during water vaporization related to the heat of vaporization?

The change in internal energy during water vaporization is directly related to the heat of vaporization. The heat of vaporization is the amount of energy required to convert one gram of a liquid into a gas at a constant temperature. This energy is used to break the intermolecular bonds between the liquid molecules and is reflected in the change in internal energy.

5. What are some real-world applications of understanding the change in internal energy during water vaporization?

Understanding the change in internal energy during water vaporization has many practical applications, such as in the design of cooling systems and refrigeration units. It is also important in meteorology, as the evaporation of water from the Earth's surface contributes to the water cycle and affects weather patterns. Additionally, industries that use water for manufacturing processes must consider the energy required for water vaporization in their production processes.

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