The Molar Specific Heat (internal energy)

[rey242]

Homework Statement

One mole of an ideal diatomic gas undergoes a transition from. a to c along the diagonal path
What is the change in internal energy?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I've tried to use the two other paths since the internal energy is the same both ways, but I can't see anyway to reconcile the two.

 

[Redbelly98]

What is the equation for internal energy of an ideal gas, in terms of its temperature?

 

[rey242]

\DeltaU=n*Cv*\DeltaT

 

[Redbelly98]

You can use that equation to solve this problem. You just need:

1. the temperature change between points a and c
2. Cv
3. n

 

[rey242]

I figured it out... but now I need to find the work done and the total heat entered into the system. I know it has to do with
U=Q-W

and the use of the other path(ABC).

 

[Redbelly98]

Yes, you'll need that equation (U=Q-W). You can also use the fact that W is the area under the curve in the P-V diagram.