First Law of Thermodynamics Question

In summary, the first law of thermodynamics states that heat added to a system is partially converted to the system's internal energy and to perform work. ΔQ represents the heat supplied to the system, while ΔW represents the work done by the system. This law is essentially an energy conservation law, stating that the heat added to the system is either used to increase the internal energy of the system or to perform work.
  • #1
bap902
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Homework Statement


The first law of thermodynamics states ΔQ = ΔU + ΔW. What does the ΔQ and the ΔW represent?


Homework Equations


ΔQ = ΔU + ΔW


The Attempt at a Solution


I've never seen the equation set up like this before so I'm a little confused. I said that ΔQ is the heat supplied to the system and ΔW is the work done by the system.
 
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  • #2
First law of thermodynamics is basically an energy conservation law. It just states that heat that is added to the system is partially converted to system's internal energy and to perform work. That's all. ΔQ is heat added to the system, ΔU is change of internal energy (sum of all potential and kinetic energy of its particles) and ΔW is work done by the system.
 
  • #3
Is this correct?

Your understanding is correct. The ΔQ represents the change in heat supplied to the system, while ΔW represents the work done by the system. This equation is a representation of the conservation of energy in a thermodynamic system, where any change in the internal energy (ΔU) is equal to the net heat supplied to the system (ΔQ) plus the work done by the system (ΔW). This law is fundamental in understanding the behavior of thermodynamic systems and is essential in many scientific fields, including chemistry, physics, and engineering.
 

What is the First Law of Thermodynamics?

The First Law of Thermodynamics is a fundamental law of physics that states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or converted from one form to another.

How does the First Law of Thermodynamics relate to energy conservation?

The First Law of Thermodynamics is directly related to energy conservation. It states that the total energy in a closed system remains constant, meaning that energy cannot be created or destroyed within the system.

Can the First Law of Thermodynamics be violated?

No, the First Law of Thermodynamics is a fundamental law of nature and cannot be violated. It has been tested and proven to hold true in all physical systems.

What are some real-life examples of the First Law of Thermodynamics in action?

Some real-life examples of the First Law of Thermodynamics include the energy transfer that occurs when we turn on a light bulb, the conversion of food into energy in our bodies, and the energy transfer that takes place in a car engine.

What is the difference between the First Law of Thermodynamics and the Law of Conservation of Energy?

The First Law of Thermodynamics and the Law of Conservation of Energy are essentially the same thing. The First Law is a specific statement of the broader concept of energy conservation, which states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or converted.

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