Thermodynamics- validity of change of internal energy equation

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the equation ΔU = mCvΔT and its applicability to different thermodynamic processes. Initially, it was believed that this equation is only valid for constant volume processes due to the definition of Cv. However, there is a reconsideration that suggests this equation may apply to any process involving an ideal gas, as ΔU depends solely on the change in temperature. The distinction between Cv and other specific heats is also highlighted, indicating that the equation's validity might extend beyond constant volume scenarios. Ultimately, clarity on the conditions under which this equation holds is essential for understanding thermodynamic principles.
mjki9ec3
Messages
3
Reaction score
0
Just had a thermodynamics exam, and one of the questions was

For an ideal gas, is the relation \DeltaU = mC_{}v\DeltaT restricted to constant volume processes only? Why?

I wrote that it was only valid for constant volume processes, because this is what C_{}V is defined as, however now I'm starting to think that is only true for Q, and that equation is true for any process, not just constant volume.

thanks in advance!
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
oops, meant to be subscript v's obviously :)
 

Thread 'Race car suspension Class'

Posted June 2024 - 15 years after starting this class. I have learned a whole lot. To get to the short course on making your stock car, late model, hobby stock E-mod handle, look at the index below. Read all posts on Roll Center, Jacking effect and Why does car drive straight to the wall when I gas it? Also read You really have two race cars. This will cover 90% of problems you have. Simply put, the car pushes going in and is loose coming out. You do not have enuff downforce on the right...
View full post »
Thread 'Physics of Stretch: What pressure does a band apply on a cylinder?'

Thread 'Physics of Stretch: What pressure does a band apply on a cylinder?'

Scenario 1 (figure 1) A continuous loop of elastic material is stretched around two metal bars. The top bar is attached to a load cell that reads force. The lower bar can be moved downwards to stretch the elastic material. The lower bar is moved downwards until the two bars are 1190mm apart, stretching the elastic material. The bars are 5mm thick, so the total internal loop length is 1200mm (1190mm + 5mm + 5mm). At this level of stretch, the load cell reads 45N tensile force. Key numbers...
View full post »

Thread 'Cantilever help'

I'm trying to decide what size and type of galvanized steel I need for 2 cantilever extensions. The cantilever is 5 ft. The space between the two cantilever arms is a 17 ft Gap the center 7 ft of the 17 ft Gap we'll need to Bear approximately 17,000 lb spread evenly from the front of the cantilever to the back of the cantilever over 5 ft. I will put support beams across these cantilever arms to support the load evenly
View full post »

Similar threads

Thermodynamic state having 2 degrees of freedom (i.e., for properties)
Replies
2
Views
1K
I How Can Internal Energy of the Canonical Ensemble Change (Fluctuate)?
Replies
15
Views
2K
State Functions for Internal Energy and Enthelphy
Replies
3
Views
1K
What is the change in internal energy after two processes?
Replies
10
Views
2K
Internal Energy of an Ideal Gas
Replies
4
Views
2K
Thermodynamics: Internal Energy, Heat and Work Problem
Replies
1
Views
2K
What is the difference between internal energy and enthalpy?
Replies
12
Views
3K
Specific heat capacity and changing volume
Replies
11
Views
2K
Deriving an expression for change in internal energy
Replies
5
Views
1K
Why Does Electrical Work Cause Changes in the Internal Energy of a System?
Replies
1
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top