Free expansion of a Van der Waal's Gas

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around finding the expression for the change in temperature when a Van der Waals gas expands freely between two equal-volume vessels. The user attempts to apply the equation u = C_vT - a/v + const but struggles with incorporating the number of moles into the final expression. They derive a partial result but seek clarification on how to correctly include the moles of gas, N_a and N_b, in the temperature change formula. The expected answer involves a specific relationship between the moles and the constants in the equation. Assistance is requested to resolve the confusion regarding the integration of moles into the expression.
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Homework Statement



There are two vessels connected by a stopper. Both have the same volume. One has "N_a" moles of gas, the other "N_b". Find the expression for the change in temperature when the stopper is opened and the system is allowed to come to a new equilibrium state.


The Attempt at a Solution



I'm supposed to use this equation: u = C_vT - a/v + const

I tried doing this: dt/dv = (du/dv) / (du/dt) were the denominator is just Cv, but that just gave me:

-a/v^2 * 1/C_v

The answer is supposed to look like:

(2n_an_b - n^2_a - n^2_b)*a/(c_v*2V[n_a + n_b])

How do I get the # of moles into this expression? Thanks.
 
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