Change in internal engergy of a monatomic ideal gas

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem involving the change in internal energy of a monatomic ideal gas during an expansion at constant pressure. The original poster seeks to determine the change in internal energy given specific parameters of the gas expansion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to find the work done during the gas expansion and expresses uncertainty about calculating the heat transfer, Q, due to a lack of specific information. Some participants question the relationship between Q and specific heat at constant pressure, while others reference the equation for change in internal energy for a monatomic gas.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring the relationships between work, heat transfer, and internal energy. Guidance has been offered regarding the connection between specific heats and the calculation of Q, indicating a productive direction in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

The problem does not provide a specific value for heat transfer, Q, which is a point of contention in the discussion. The participants are also considering the implications of constant pressure on the calculations.

alexthelion
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Homework Statement


A monatomic ideal gas expands from 1.00 meters cubed to 2.50 meters cubed at a constant pressure of 2.00 x 10^5 Pa. Find the change in the internal energy of the gas.



Homework Equations



[tex]\Delta[/tex]U = Q + W

The Attempt at a Solution



Well, I know how to find work, which is -P[tex]\Delta[/tex]V

But I'm having trouble finding the energy transferred into the system by heat, or Q, because the problem does not give a specific value for it.

I would much appreciate it if someone could give me some pointers as to how to find Q.
 
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How is Q related the the specific heat at constant pressure?
 
I don't exactly know, I do know that [tex]\Delta[/tex]U = 3/2nR[tex]\Delta[/tex]T for a monatomic gas, where the molar specific heat is given by Cv = 3/2R
 
If you know CV, then Cp = CV + R. Also at constant pressure Q = n CpΔT. Now you can put it together.
 
Aha, thanks for the help! I got it.
 

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