Thermodynamic and mechanical work

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

Thermodynamic work and mechanical work are distinct concepts in physics, with thermodynamic work relating to energy transfer due to temperature differences and mechanical work involving force applied over a distance. In experiments, discrepancies between their values can arise from measurement errors, system inefficiencies, or incorrect assumptions about the system's boundaries. Understanding these differences is crucial for accurate experimental design and analysis in thermodynamics and mechanics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic thermodynamic principles
  • Familiarity with mechanical work concepts
  • Knowledge of energy transfer mechanisms
  • Ability to analyze experimental data
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the laws of thermodynamics and their implications on work
  • Study the principles of mechanical work and energy conservation
  • Explore common experimental errors in measuring work
  • Learn about the relationship between work and heat in thermodynamic systems
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, engineers working with thermodynamic systems, and researchers analyzing energy transfer processes will benefit from this discussion.

WazapMe
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
What is the difference between thermodynamic and mechanical work? Should they show equal values in an experiment? If yes, what possible errors could cause if there is a difference in their values?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
WazapMe said:
What is the difference between thermodynamic and mechanical work? Should they show equal values in an experiment? If yes, what possible errors could cause if there is a difference in their values?
[thread moved to the schoolwork forums]

Welcome to PF. Please tell us the definitions of each term that you are familiar with, and tell us what differences you can think of. Per the PF rules, we cannot help you with schoolwork-type questions until you show your best efforts to answer the questions. Thank you. :smile:
 

Thread 'Magnitude of buoyant force in fluids of different densities'

The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?
View full post »

Similar threads

Thermodynamic Work vs Mechanical Work
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Why is PV work in thermodynamics so difficult to understand?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Thermodynamics: Internal Energy, Heat and Work Problem
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Work greater than heat given to colder reservoir -- impossible?
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
The maximum reversible work in thermodynamics (2)
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
823
Entropy and the Laws of Thermodynamics
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Efficiency of the Rankine Cycle
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Undergrad Relationship between nuclear magnetic physics and Maxwell's demon
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
652
What Causes the Loss of Mechanical Energy in a Frictionless Spinning Cylinder?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
Recognizing Thermodynamic Scenarious (Work Done)
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K