Enthelpy and Heat State Functions

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between enthalpy (H), heat (q), and pressure in thermodynamic processes. The user questions whether enthalpy remains equal to heat when pressure is not constant and why heat is not considered a state function despite its dependence on initial and final states. Key equations referenced include U + PV = H and dH = dU + pdV + Vdp, with the user emphasizing that enthalpy is a state function while heat is not.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermodynamic principles, specifically state functions
  • Familiarity with the equations of state, particularly U + PV = H
  • Knowledge of the first law of thermodynamics and its implications
  • Basic concepts of mechanical work in thermodynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of non-constant pressure on enthalpy calculations
  • Research the differences between state functions and path functions in thermodynamics
  • Explore the derivation and applications of the equation dH = dU + pdV + Vdp
  • Investigate the significance of heat transfer in chemical reactions and its measurement
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Students and professionals in chemistry and physics, particularly those studying thermodynamics, chemical engineering, and energy transfer processes.

chem1234
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I'm sure this topic has been asked before so I'd be happy if you'd just direct me to the thread.
I know U+PV=H and if the only work done is PV work then H=q-P∆V+P∆V=q. And I know that pressure must be constant. I also know that a state function is a function where the value of the function only depends on the change between the last and first states. I have 2 questions.
1. If pressure were not constant wouldn't the PV work=0 and enthalpy would still equal q?
2. I understand why enthalpy is a state function. The heat lost or gained only depends on the change between the first and last states. If enthalpy always equals q then why isn't q a state function? For example if 2 reactions happened one released 20 kJ of heat and one absorbed 10 kJ of heat the change in q or the heat lost or gained in the system is -20 kj + 10 kj =10 kJ lost.

I feel like my reasoning is probably off somewhere. Can someone help me please?
 
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chem1234 said:
I'm sure this topic has been asked before so I'd be happy if you'd just direct me to the thread.
I know U+PV=H and if the only work done is PV work then H=q-P∆V+P∆V=q. And I know that pressure must be constant. I also know that a state function is a function where the value of the function only depends on the change between the last and first states. I have 2 questions.
1. If pressure were not constant wouldn't the PV work=0 and enthalpy would still equal q?
2. I understand why enthalpy is a state function. The heat lost or gained only depends on the change between the first and last states. If enthalpy always equals q then why isn't q a state function? For example if 2 reactions happened one released 20 kJ of heat and one absorbed 10 kJ of heat the change in q or the heat lost or gained in the system is -20 kj + 10 kj =10 kJ lost.

I feel like my reasoning is probably off somewhere. Can someone help me please?

dH = dU + pdV + Vdp

Only mechanical work (dU = δQ - pdV)

dH = δQ + Vdp

If p=constant

dH|p = δQ|p
 

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