Thermal Energy Transfer: A Gas Heated at Constant Volume and Pressure

In summary, the conversation discusses the transfer of thermal energy to a gas contained in a quartz tube. The gas is initially at 20 deg c and is heated to 300 deg c at constant volume. The amount of thermal energy transferred is calculated using the formula E= 3/2 nRT. However, it is mentioned that if the gas was heated at constant pressure, the required energy would be different. This is due to the fact that the heat capacity at constant pressure of an ideal monatomic gas is different from that at constant volume.
  • #1
calculusisrad
20
0
A quartz tube contains one mom of gAs at 20 deg c. The gas is heated at constant volume to 300 deg c. How much thermal energy is transferred to the gas? If the same amount were heated at constant pressure, how muh energy would be required?

I know how to solve this for constant volume using E= 3/2 nRT to get 3490.2 j but I don't know what difference constant pressure makes?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
calculusisrad said:
A quartz tube contains one mom of gAs at 20 deg c. The gas is heated at constant volume to 300 deg c. How much thermal energy is transferred to the gas? If the same amount were heated at constant pressure, how muh energy would be required?

I know how to solve this for constant volume using E= 3/2 nRT to get 3490.2 j but I don't know what difference constant pressure makes?

Welcome to PF, calculusisrad! :smile:

In the formula E= 3/2 nRT you are using that the heat capacity at constant volume of an ideal monatomic gas is Cv = 3/2 nR.
The heat capacity at constant pressure of an ideal monatomic gas is Cp = 5/2 nR.

Btw, you did not mention the type of gas, but is it perhaps one of the noble gasses?
Because that's basically what you need for that formula to hold.
 

1. What is thermal energy transfer?

Thermal energy transfer refers to the movement of heat from one object or system to another. This can occur through conduction, convection, or radiation.

2. How does a gas behave when heated at constant volume and pressure?

When a gas is heated at constant volume and pressure, its temperature and pressure will both increase. This is known as the ideal gas law, which states that the pressure and temperature of a gas are directly proportional to each other when the volume is held constant.

3. What is the difference between constant volume and constant pressure heating?

In constant volume heating, the volume of the gas remains constant while the pressure and temperature increase. In constant pressure heating, the pressure remains constant while the volume and temperature may change.

4. How does thermal energy transfer affect the properties of a gas?

Thermal energy transfer can change the temperature, pressure, and volume of a gas. It can also affect the internal energy and enthalpy of the gas.

5. What are some real-life applications of thermal energy transfer in gases?

Some examples of thermal energy transfer in gases include the heating and cooling of homes and buildings, the operation of engines and turbines, and the production of electricity through power plants. It is also used in various industrial processes such as chemical reactions and food preservation.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
910
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
859
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
847
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
532
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
741
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
4
Replies
116
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
901
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
2K
Back
Top