How Does Expanding an Ideal Gas Affect Heat Absorption and Internal Energy?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the heat absorbed and the increase in internal energy of an ideal gas (γ=1.4) expanded under constant pressure, with work done specified as 80 Joules. Participants emphasize the importance of understanding the first law of thermodynamics, represented by the equation W = Q - ΔU, and the need to clarify whether the work is done by or on the system. The conversation highlights the relationship between heat (Q), internal energy change (ΔE), and the specific heat capacities (Cp and Cv) of the gas. A key point is the use of the ratio of specific heats (γ) to derive a relationship between Q and ΔE, which leads to solving the problem with the given information. The discussion concludes with participants acknowledging the collaborative effort in reaching a solution.
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Homework Statement



An ideal gas(γ=1.4) was expanded under constant pressure. The work done was 80 Joule.Calculate the heat absorbed and increase in internal energy of the system.
 
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Well, what's the equation for a gas undergoing expansion under constant pressure?
w= P \int dV
 
Feodalherren said:
Well, what's the equation for a gas undergoing expansion under constant pressure?
w= P \int dV

what is the solution?
 
I'm not just going to give you the solution. You won't learn anything. You need to show some work and initiative and I can guide you through it.

Start by thinking about this: is the change in energy path dependent or path independent?
 
Feodalherren said:
I'm not just going to give you the solution. You won't learn anything. You need to show some work and initiative and I can guide you through it.

Start by thinking about this: is the change in energy path dependent or path independent?

W = Q-ΔU is known from from first law of thermodynamics and w is given here . Now how shall i proceed using γ=1.4 ? how to apply your equation ?
please help.
 
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Is this calculus based physics or algebra based?

See this is why you need to show some work, I have no idea at what level you're doing this. If the integral is what's confusing you then simply change it to: w = P \Delta V.

You want to find Q_{in} for a constant pressure problem.

\Delta E = W + Q

We know that w= -80J. Because the system did work on the piston it has to be negative - energy left the system.

\Delta E + 80 = Q

\gamma = 1.4 Therefore you know it's a diatomic gas.

And I actually get stuck there too.. Hmm. You aren't given either moles of gas or change in temperature? With your gamma you can find Cp and Cv but you don't seem to have enough information.

Q = nC_{p} \Delta T

and \Delta E = nC_{v} \Delta T

Edit: It's ambiguous if they mean that the work done was by the system or on the system. Is this the whole original question?
 
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Feodalherren said:
And I actually get stuck there too.. Hmm. You aren't given either moles of gas or change in temperature? With your gamma you can find Cp and Cv but you don't seem to have enough information.

Q = nC_{p} \Delta T

and \Delta E = nC_{v} \Delta T

Divide these two equations and you will get Q/ΔE = cp/cv = γ = 1.4. Along with the equation from conservation of energy, you now have two equations with two unknowns.
 
CAF123 said:
Divide these two equations and you will get Q/ΔE = cp/cv = γ = 1.4. Along with the equation from conservation of energy, you now have two equations with two unknowns.
Ah! Genius. I would never have thought of that :).
 
CAF123 said:
Divide these two equations and you will get Q/ΔE = cp/cv = γ = 1.4. Along with the equation from conservation of energy, you now have two equations with two unknowns.

well done. Thanks to both of you.
 

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