Confusion regarding Thermodynamics - Molar Specific Heats for Gases

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the heat added to a 2.00 mole sample of nitrogen gas as it heats from 0 to 150 degrees Celsius at constant pressure. The initial confusion stems from the application of the equation Q = nC(delta T), where the correct molar specific heat at constant pressure (Cp) must be used. Participants clarify that Cp for nitrogen is (7/2)R, and emphasize the importance of ensuring the correct value for Cp is applied in the calculations. The first law of thermodynamics is also referenced to validate the relationship between heat, internal energy, and work done. Ultimately, the correct application of these principles leads to the accurate determination of heat added.
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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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