Deriving heat capacity using thermodynamics identity

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around deriving the heat capacity formula \( C_V = T \frac{\partial S}{\partial T}_V \) using thermodynamic identities. The subject area is thermodynamics, specifically focusing on heat capacity and its relation to entropy and internal energy.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive the heat capacity formula using relationships between internal energy, entropy, and temperature. Some participants suggest substituting differentials of entropy and internal energy to explore the derivation further. There are also questions regarding the notation used for energy, specifically the difference between \( E \) and \( U \).

Discussion Status

The discussion includes various attempts to clarify the derivation process and notation. While one participant confirms the original poster's solution as correct, others express uncertainty about the approach taken and suggest starting from the thermodynamic identity. There is no explicit consensus on the best method to derive the formula.

Contextual Notes

Participants note a lack of thermal physicists in the forum, which may affect the depth of discussion. There is also an acknowledgment of potential confusion regarding notation and terminology in thermodynamics.

ultimateguy
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Homework Statement


Use the thermodynamic identity to derive the heat capacity formula [tex]C_V=T\frac{\partial{S}}{\partial{T}}_V[/tex]

Homework Equations


[tex]C_V=\frac{\partial{U}}{\partial{T}}[/tex]
[tex]T=\frac{\partial{U}}{\partial{S}}[/tex]
dU=TdS-PdV+[tex]\mu[/tex]dN

The Attempt at a Solution



I used [tex]C_V=\frac{\partial{U}}{\partial{S}}\frac{\partial{S}}{\partial{T}}=T\frac{\partial{S}}{\partial{T}}_V=\frac{\partial{U}}{\partial{T}}=C_V[/tex].
This is the only solution I can think of, but I don't think I used the thermodynamics identity, did I?
 
Last edited:
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There are a distinct lack of thermal physicists on this website and with good reason as it is one of the most boring subjects ever. I think if you know that:

[tex]dS=(\frac{\partial{S}}{\partial{U}})_{PV}dU[/tex]

Then you can substitute the following into the equation for dU,

[tex]dU=(\frac{\partial{U}}{\partial{T}})_VdT[/tex]

and have a fiddle about, that should set you off on the right lines.
 
Last edited:
This may be a dumb question, but what's the difference between E and U?
 
ultimateguy said:
This may be a dumb question, but what's the difference between E and U?

There is none. I apologise. I normally write E and I was trying to conform to your notation but obviously forgot half way through I will change it.
 
The solution provided by the OP is correct.

Daniel.
 
I'd have thought if they wanted a derivation from the thermodynamic identity then they'd want you to start from that. However the OP proof might be accepted.
 

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