Partial Derivative of Van der Waals Equation

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding partial derivatives of the Van der Waals equation, specifically the derivative of pressure (p) with respect to volume (v) and temperature (T). Participants are exploring the implications of implicit versus explicit functions in the context of derivatives.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express uncertainty about how to approach the differentiation of the Van der Waals equation. Questions are raised regarding the process of finding derivatives without further differentiation and the distinction between implicit and explicit functions.

Discussion Status

Some participants are seeking guidance on how to begin solving the problem, while others are attempting to relate their understanding of derivatives from simpler equations to the Van der Waals equation. There is an ongoing exploration of concepts without a clear consensus on a method.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the complexity of the Van der Waals equation and the rules of differentiation, indicating a potential lack of familiarity with implicit differentiation techniques. There are repeated requests for foundational understanding and starting points for solving the problem.

Scharles
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Given that the Van Der Waals equation is (p + (an^2)/v^2)(v-nb)=nRT where n,a,R and b are constants...

How to we find the derivative of p wrt v ?

How to find the derivative of p wrt T without further differentiation ??

Can anyone teach me how to do this question ?

Sincerly thanks~
 
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Scharles said:
Given that the Van Der Waals equation is (p + (an^2)/v^2)(v-nb)=nRT where n,a,R and b are constants...

How to we find the derivative of p wrt v ?

How to find the derivative of p wrt T without further differentiation ??

Can anyone teach me how to do this question ?

Sincerely thanks~
What have you tried?

Where are you stuck ?
 
i have no idea on how to solving this...
please kindly teach me how to start on solving this sort of question...
 
Do you know the difference between an implicit function and an explicit one ? What do you know about the derivatives for explicit functions ? How about implicit ones ?
 
Scharles said:
i have no idea on how to solving this...
please kindly teach me how to start on solving this sort of question...

If I had an equation:

y(x)+x=k

and I wanted to take the derivative of y with respect to x, I'd get:

y'(x)+1=0

Ok, not too bad.

Suppose I had:

y(x)+\frac{1}{x^2}=k

still not too bad if I want the derivative of y with respect to x. That's:

y'-2x^{-3}=0

How about:

(y(x)+\frac{c}{x^2})(x-k)=a

That's still not too bad cus' I'd use the chain rule this time:

(y(x)+\frac{c}{x^2}) \frac{d}{dx} (x-k)+(x-k)\frac{d}{dx}(y(x)+\frac{c}{x^2})=0

and that's:

(y(x)+\frac{c}{x^2})(1)+(x-k)(y'(x)-2cx^{-3})=0

ok, now you do one but instead of y(x), I'll say:

(p(v)+\frac{k}{v^2})(v-c)=a

and I want to take the derivative of p with respect to v. Do that one, then do yours with all the other parameters.
 
Last edited:

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