Solve Thermodynamic Signs Homework: W C → A, Q A → B, etc.

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The forum discussion addresses a thermodynamic problem involving a system transitioning through states A, B, and C. The user incorrectly assigned signs to work and heat transfers during these transitions. Specifically, the work done by the gas during the expansion from B to C should be negative due to the increase in volume, while the heat flow from A to B is positive. The first law of thermodynamics is emphasized, stating that ∆U = Q - W, which is crucial for correctly analyzing the energy changes in the system.

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  • Understanding of the first law of thermodynamics (∆U = Q - W)
  • Familiarity with thermodynamic processes: isochoric and isobaric
  • Knowledge of work conventions in thermodynamics (positive vs. negative work)
  • Ability to interpret and analyze thermodynamic graphs
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  • Review the first law of thermodynamics and its applications in different processes
  • Study the concepts of isochoric and isobaric processes in detail
  • Learn about thermodynamic conventions for work and heat transfers
  • Practice solving thermodynamic problems involving energy changes and state transitions
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Homework Statement


A thermodynamic system changes isochorically from state A to state B where the temperature is greater than state A. The system then expands isobarically to state C where the temperature is greater than state B. From state C the system returns to its original state A linearly. Select Zero, Positive, or Negative for all selections.
W C → A
Q A → B
W B → C
∆U C → A
Q B → C
∆U A → B

Homework Equations


∆U = Q + W
W = WORK ON GAS
Q = HEAT ADDED TO GAS
W = -P∆V

The Attempt at a Solution


W C → A +
Q A → B +
W B → C -
∆U C → A 0
Q B → C 0
∆U A → B +

WHAT AM I DOING WRONG?

(GRAPH ATTATCHED)
 

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Determine ∆U for B → C, then find which one of your results is inconsistent regarding the B → C process.
 
It's W = -P∆V. The volume is increasing because the temperature is increasing. So the work is negative. So I can't find anything inconsistent regarding the B → C process...
 
anyone??
 
really, i need tp know the answer
 
yuvlevental said:

Homework Statement


A thermodynamic system changes isochorically from state A to state B where the temperature is greater than state A. The system then expands isobarically to state C where the temperature is greater than state B. From state C the system returns to its original state A linearly. Select Zero, Positive, or Negative for all selections.
W C → A
Q A → B
W B → C
∆U C → A
Q B → C
∆U A → B


Homework Equations


∆U = Q + W
W = WORK ON GAS
Q = HEAT ADDED TO GAS
W = -P∆V

The Attempt at a Solution


W C → A +
Q A → B +
W B → C -
∆U C → A 0
Q B → C 0
∆U A → B +

WHAT AM I DOING WRONG?

(GRAPH ATTATCHED)
Make sure that you are using the right convention for W. The convention is to use W done by the gas as positive and W done on the gas as negative. The first law is:

\Delta Q = \Delta U + W or

\Delta U = \Delta Q - W

Also, we can't tell what you are doing wrong without knowing your reasoning.

ie. What is your reason for saying that:

1. the work done by the gas from C to A is positive?

2. the heat flow into the gas from A to B is positive?

3. the work done by the gas from B to C is negative?

4. the change in internal energy of the gas from C to A is 0?

5. the heat flow into the gas from B to C is 0?

6. the change in internal energy of the gas from A to B is positive?

AM
 

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