Heat Flow Between Containers: What's True?

AI Thread Summary
Heat exchange occurs between two containers at different temperatures, with one container losing internal energy and the other gaining it. The direction of heat flow is determined by the temperature difference, indicating that heat moves from the hotter container to the cooler one. The discussion highlights confusion regarding molecular diffusion, clarifying that the sealed nature of the containers prevents molecular movement between them. The key takeaway is that heat flows from the hotter container to the cooler container, aligning with the principles of thermodynamics. Understanding this concept is essential for solving related physics problems.
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Homework Statement



Two containers contain molecules at different temperatures as shown. They are allowed to exchange heat between them, but not with outside. Which of the following statements is most accurate?

a) Container #1 looses Internal energy, container #2 gains internal energy
b) Container #2 looses Internal energy, container #1 gains internal energy
c) Heat flows form container #1 to container #2
d) Heat flows from container #2 to container #1
e) Both a and b are true
f) Both b and c are true
g) Both b and d are true

http://img363.imageshack.us/img363/7761/physics101yx3.jpg

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



G? Due to diffusion because the molecules are moving from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.
 
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I'm still really confused about this one. Any help would be appreciated.
 
The molecules appear to be sealed off in their own respective containers, so I don't see how they could diffuse from one into the other.

The initial temperatures of the two containers are given, so one is clearly hotter than the other. That's enough information to figure out which way heat flows.
 
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