SAT Physics Help: Understanding Thermal & Electric Forces

In summary, the efficiency of a heat engine is a measure of how well it converts the energy it takes in from a hot source into mechanical work.
  • #1
bl75
1
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right now, I am trying to read a chapter on thermal physics and electric forces. I am trying to do the practice questions, but I can't seem to understand them. Can someone please do these few questions and explain them as well? thanks!

1) During each cycle, a heat engine absorbs 400 J of heat from its high-temperature source and sicards 300 J of heat into its low-temperature sink. What is the efficiency of this engine?
a) 1/7
b) 1/4
c) 3/7
d) 4/7
e) 3/4

2) Through a series of thermodynamic processes, the internal energy of a sample of confined gas is increased by 560 J. if the net amount of work done on the sample by its surroundings is 320 J, how much heat was transferred between the gas and its environment?
a) 240 J absorbed
b) 240 J dissipated
c) 880 J absorbed
d) 880 J dissipated
e) none of the above

3) a sphere of charge +Q is fixed in position. A smaller sphere of charge +q is placed near the larger sphjere and released from rest. The small sphere will move away from the large sphere with

a) decreasing velocity and decreasing acceleration
b) decreasing velocity and increasing acceleration
c) decreasing velocity and constant acceleration
d) increasing velocity and decreasing acceleration
e) increasing velocity and increasing acceleration

4) If the electric field does negative work on a negative charge as the charge undergoes a displacement from position A to positioon B within an electric field, then the electrical potential energy
a) is negative
b) is positive
c) increases
d) decreases
e) cannot be determined from the information given

5) The potential at point A in an electric field is 10V higher than at point B. If a negative charge, q=-2C, is moved from point A to point B, then the potential energy of this charge will

a) decrease by 20 J
b) decrease by 5 J
c) increase by 5 J
d) increase by 20 J
e) increase by 100 J
 
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  • #2
Hi. Welcome to PF.
Please read the rules of PF.
We are here to help you in your home work. For that you have to your attempt.
What are the relevant equation you use to solve the above problems?
 
  • #3
(1) Ideally you would like a heat engine to take in the heat from a hot resevoir and convert all of that energy into mechanical work, but that's not possible. It can convert some of that energy into work, but it must also throw away some of that energy by releasing it to a cold reservoir. A formula for the efficiency of a heat engine will be a measure of that situation.
 

1. What are thermal and electric forces?

Thermal and electric forces are two types of forces that can act on objects. Thermal forces are related to temperature and can cause objects to expand or contract. Electric forces are caused by the interactions between charged particles and can attract or repel objects.

2. How do thermal and electric forces affect matter?

Thermal and electric forces can both cause changes in the physical properties of matter. Thermal forces can cause changes in the size, shape, and density of matter, while electric forces can cause objects to become electrically charged or to experience electric current.

3. What is the difference between thermal and electric forces?

The main difference between thermal and electric forces is the source of the force. Thermal forces are caused by differences in temperature, while electric forces are caused by the interactions between charged particles. Additionally, thermal forces tend to affect the physical properties of matter, while electric forces can affect the electrical properties of matter.

4. Can thermal and electric forces be measured?

Yes, both thermal and electric forces can be measured using various instruments. Thermal forces can be measured using thermometers, while electric forces can be measured using voltmeters, ammeters, and other electrical measuring devices.

5. How can I use thermal and electric forces in everyday life?

Thermal and electric forces play important roles in our daily lives. For example, we use thermal forces to cook food, heat our homes, and control the temperature of our environment. Electric forces are used in various household appliances, electronics, and power sources. Understanding these forces can also help us make informed decisions about energy usage and conservation.

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