How can heat change if temp is constant?

In summary, an isothermal process is one where the temperature remains constant. However, this does not mean that heat, work, and change in internal energy are all equal to zero. The equation Q=mcDeltaT, which is used to calculate heat, is only applicable to certain assumptions and processes. In the case of isothermal expansion of an ideal gas, Q is equal to W.
  • #1
toesockshoe
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In my textbook it says an isothermal process occurs when the temperature is constant. It also said taht typically, Q,W, and delta U are not 0 in these processes. My question is how can heat not be 0 if temperature is constant?

Q=mcDeltaT so if Delta T is 0, then Q also has to be 0 right?
 
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  • #3
toesockshoe said:
In my textbook it says an isothermal process occurs when the temperature is constant. It also said taht typically, Q,W, and delta U are not 0 in these processes. My question is how can heat not be 0 if temperature is constant?

Q=mcDeltaT so if Delta T is 0, then Q also has to be 0 right?
When work is done, this equation does not necessarily give the correct result. For isothermal expansion of an ideal gas, Q = W.
 

1. How can heat change if the temperature is constant?

Heat can change if the temperature is constant through a process called latent heat. This is the energy absorbed or released when a substance changes state without a change in temperature. For example, when ice melts into water at 0°C, the temperature remains constant while heat is being added to the ice to change its state.

2. Why does heat change even when the temperature is constant?

This is due to the principle of conservation of energy. Heat is a form of energy, and it can be transferred or transformed into other forms of energy, such as potential or kinetic energy. So even if the temperature remains constant, heat can still be transferred or transformed, resulting in a change in the system.

3. Can heat change without a change in temperature?

Yes, heat can change without a change in temperature through the process of conduction. This is when heat is transferred from a warmer object to a cooler object without any change in temperature. For example, when you touch a cold metal spoon, the heat from your hand is transferred to the spoon, but the temperature of the spoon remains the same.

4. How does heat change affect the surrounding temperature if the temperature is constant?

The change in heat can affect the surrounding temperature even if the temperature is constant. For example, if you add heat to a closed system, the temperature may remain constant, but the pressure may increase due to the increase in energy. This can then affect the surrounding temperature through conduction or radiation.

5. Is it possible for heat to change without a change in temperature in an open system?

Yes, it is possible for heat to change without a change in temperature in an open system through the process of evaporation. When a liquid evaporates, it takes heat energy from its surroundings, resulting in a decrease in temperature. However, the overall temperature of the system may remain constant as the heat is being transferred to the surrounding environment.

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