How Does Helium's Entropy Change After Slow Isothermal Escape?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the change in entropy of helium gas during a slow isothermal escape from a tank initially at 200 atm and 20 degrees Celsius. The key equations involved are ΔS = N k Ln[Vf/Vi] and dS = dQ/T, where dQ represents the heat flow during the process. The solution requires determining the final volume (Vf) and the heat flow associated with the expansion of the gas as it escapes, which is equivalent to the work done by the gas. The first law of thermodynamics is applied to relate heat flow and work done, leading to the conclusion that the entropy change can be calculated from the work done during the expansion.

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Here is the problem:
"A careless experimenter left the valve of a tank of helium slightly open over the weekend. The gas, originally at 200 atm, slowly escaped isothermally at 20 degrees C. What change in entropy per kg of gas occurred? " I am given, K, N, and Mass of helium per mole.

I am stuck because all I know is:

Delta S = N k Ln[Vf/Vi]
and
P=NkT/V

I can't seem to figure out how to make these work though given the problem at hand. How do I find out what N-final and V-final are? That is assuming I even need to find those out to solve this problem. :rolleyes: Any help is greatly appreciated!
 
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mewmew said:
Here is the problem:
"A careless experimenter left the valve of a tank of helium slightly open over the weekend. The gas, originally at 200 atm, slowly escaped isothermally at 20 degrees C. What change in entropy per kg of gas occurred? " I am given, K, N, and Mass of helium per mole.

I am stuck because all I know is:

Delta S = N k Ln[Vf/Vi]
and
P=NkT/V

I can't seem to figure out how to make these work though given the problem at hand. How do I find out what N-final and V-final are? That is assuming I even need to find those out to solve this problem. :rolleyes: Any help is greatly appreciated!
Use dS = dQ/T

\Delta S = \int ds = \int dQ/T = \Delta Q/T where the heat flow occurs at the same temperature.

You just have to find the heat flow in expanding 200 times (ie pressure going from 200 atm to 1). Use the first law:

dQ = dU + PdV = nC_vdT + PdV

since T is constant, dU = 0 so dQ = PdV

So the heat flow out of the gas is equal to the work done by the gas. What is the work done by the gas?

AM
 

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