Confusion regarding Thermodynamics - Molar Specific Heats for Gases

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a thermodynamics problem involving the calculation of heat added to a sample of nitrogen gas as it is heated at constant pressure. The original poster expresses confusion regarding the application of the equation for heat transfer, specifically questioning why their initial approach did not yield the expected results.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the equation Q = nC(delta T) for heat transfer but encounters issues, leading to questions about the correct application of the molar specific heat constant. Other participants suggest verifying the value of Cp used and explore the relationship between Cp and Cv.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in clarifying the original poster's misunderstanding regarding the application of the heat transfer equation. Some guidance has been offered regarding the correct use of Cp, but there is still uncertainty about the original poster's calculations and reasoning.

Contextual Notes

The original poster indicates that they are following a textbook problem and are concerned about the accuracy of their approach. There is a focus on ensuring the correct values and understanding the underlying principles of thermodynamics in a constant pressure scenario.

HolyArrow
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Homework Statement


From Giancoli's UC Berkeley edition Physics for Engineers and Scientists:
A 2.00 mole sample of N2 (nitrogen) gas at 0 degrees C is heating to 150 degrees C at constant pressure (1.00 atm). Determine the heat added to it.

Homework Equations


Variables in equations: V = volume, P = pressure, C = Molar Specific Heat, n = moles, T = temperature, Q = heat

(I thought this was relevant but apparently it isn't and I don't understand why): Q = nC(delta T), with C being the molar specific heat constant for Nitrogen at constant pressure.

(actually relevant): for a process at constant pressure, Q = (change in internal energy) + P(delta V), which I can see is just the first law of thermodynamics.

Also, (internal energy) = (5/2)nRT for a diatomic gas

The Attempt at a Solution


This is kind of a request for clarification, rather than at solving the actual problem. Basically, right when I read the problem, I thought to myself that the first equation above (Q = nC(delta T)) would be the solution. It explicitly states in the book that the heat Q needed to raise the temperature of n moles of gas by delta T is given by that equation. However, that equation doesn't work. I eventually figured out that I'd have to use some equations on the next page, which are the other relevant equations that I posted, to solve the problem. So, I was able to get the solution. However, I still don't understand why the first equation I tried failed to work, and that bothers me. I am certain that I used the correct SI units. Any help?
 
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The equation Q = nCpΔT should work for a constant pressure process unless you used an incorrect value for Cp. In your "attempt for a solution" you don't specify what you used for C. You should have used Cp. Don't forget that Cp=CV+R which in this case gives Cp=(7/2)R.
 
I apologize for the lack of clarity. I indeed used the correct CP, so I really don't know what I did wrong. It's pretty infuriating. I checked back and forth countless times to make sure I didn't misread; the process is indeed one of constant pressure.
 
So you did

Q=n*7/2*R*150K

because using first law gives the same equation

Q=5/2nR*∆T+nR∆T=7/2nR∆T
 

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