Interpreting enthelpy on a ph diagram

  • Thread starter Thread starter influx
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Diagram Ph
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on interpreting enthalpy changes in a vapor compression refrigeration cycle, specifically analyzing the equations derived from the first law of thermodynamics, q = w + Δh. Participants express confusion over the conventions used for enthalpy differences, particularly the notation h1-h4 versus h4-h1, and the implications of these conventions on understanding energy transfers. The importance of clear definitions and consistent notation in thermodynamic contexts is emphasized, as it aids in accurately interpreting the relationships between enthalpy states.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the first law of thermodynamics
  • Familiarity with enthalpy and its significance in thermodynamic cycles
  • Knowledge of vapor compression refrigeration cycle principles
  • Ability to interpret ph diagrams and associated notations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the conventions of enthalpy notation in thermodynamics
  • Learn about the derivation and application of the first law of thermodynamics in refrigeration cycles
  • Explore detailed resources on ph diagrams and their interpretation
  • Investigate common pitfalls in thermodynamic problem-solving and how to avoid them
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in thermodynamics, mechanical engineers, and anyone involved in the design or analysis of refrigeration systems will benefit from this discussion.

influx
Messages
162
Reaction score
1

Homework Statement


8e02c9.png

2. Homework Equations

q = w+Δh

The Attempt at a Solution



I fail to understand how they obtained the 3 equations at the bottom. For the first one I understand that q = Δh since w = 0 but why is it h1-h4 rather than the other way around? Also, why does this h1-h4 equal h14 rather than h41? Is there some sort of convention? If yes, why isn't it followed with the next line which is h3-h2 = -h23 ? Similarly, why is Win = h1-h2 rather than the opposite way and why does this equal -h12?

Later on in the lecture it says:

2eecde.png


so now qh = h2-h3 ? So is it h3-h2 or the other way round?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
Hello,

This looks like an analysis of a vapour compression refrigeration cycle.
If there is no explanatory context, then that's didactically not very good. Good books tend to clearly define what's positive and what's negative, but here it has to be picked up from the context. And the double arrows on the red lines with e.g. h23 are very unhelpful ! They should have used arrows on the right hand side only.

As a physicist I am used to read from left to right so ##\tau_{21}## is the lifetime of level 2 for transition to level 1.

And here it looks like use the same convention: h41 = h4 - h1 = - h14

At least they do it consistently, e.g. : h4 = h1 + h14 and h2 = h1 + h12
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: influx

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
28K
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K