*Net* thermal energy exchanged?

In summary, the question presents a scenario where two objects at the same temperature are in close proximity. The options given are A) the objects have the same internal energy, B) the objects have the same thermal capacity, C) no thermal energy is exchanged between the objects, and D) the net thermal energy exchanged between the objects is zero. While the student initially believes that both C and D may be correct, the markscheme indicates that only D is the correct answer. However, the student argues that if the objects are at the same temperature, there must be a constant flow of thermal energy between them even though the net exchange is zero.
  • #1
Greg777
11
0

Homework Statement



Hello, I have the following problem (an ABCD question):

Two objects near each other are at the same temperature. Which of the following statements has to be true?
A. The objects have the same internal energy.
B. The objects have the same thermal capacity.
C. No thermal energy is exchanged between the objects.
D. The net thermal energy exchanged between the objects is zero.

Homework Equations


I think there are none, it's rather conceptual.

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
I think there's nothing wrong with C but according to the markscheme the correct one is D. Well, I think that both C and D are correct. If C is wrong, if the objects are at the same temperature how may there be any exchange of thermal energy between them?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
They both emit thermal radiation, for example. The net exchange is zero but there is a constant flow of energy in both directions.
 
  • Like
Likes Greg777

1. What is net thermal energy exchanged?

Net thermal energy exchanged is the difference between the amount of energy entering and leaving a system in the form of heat. It takes into account both the heat gained by the system and the heat lost by the system.

2. How is net thermal energy exchanged calculated?

Net thermal energy exchanged is calculated by subtracting the heat lost by the system from the heat gained by the system. This can be represented by the equation Qnet = Qin - Qout.

3. What factors affect net thermal energy exchanged?

The factors that affect net thermal energy exchanged include the temperature difference between the system and its surroundings, the thermal conductivity of the materials involved, and the area and thickness of the materials.

4. How does net thermal energy exchanged relate to heat transfer?

Net thermal energy exchanged is a measure of the overall heat transfer between a system and its surroundings. It takes into account both the heat gained and lost, providing a more complete picture of the heat transfer process.

5. Can net thermal energy exchanged be negative?

Yes, net thermal energy exchanged can be negative. This indicates that the system has lost more heat than it has gained, resulting in a net loss of thermal energy. This can occur in situations where the system is losing heat to its surroundings, such as in a cooling process.

Similar threads

Doubling the Thermal Energy of a Frozen Chocolate Bar
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
981
Thermal Energy when Heating and Cooling a Cabaret
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
932
Harnessing Energy in an Engine: Unlocking the Secrets of Thermodynamics
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
958
B Heat exchange after thermal equilibrium
    • Thermodynamics
Replies
2
Views
1K
Effect on net torque and net force on spools
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
Heat flow in and out of a cabaret
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K
Is potential energy defined only for internal conservative forces?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
15
Views
355
I try to solve a thermodynamics problem on heat transfer
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
970
Need help with finding thermal and Kinetic energy
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
20
Views
2K
Heating efficiency of a Heat Pump and a Space Heater
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
936

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top