What Are the Key Steps to Solve A-Lev Physics Gas and Thermal Exam Questions?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on solving A-Level Physics exam questions related to gas laws and thermal dynamics. Key concepts include the relationship between root mean square (r.m.s) speed and temperature, the ideal gas equation, and the kinetic theory of gases. The forum emphasizes the importance of showing initial attempts at problem-solving to receive assistance. Additionally, it advises posting questions individually to enhance engagement and support from the community.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the ideal gas law and its applications.
  • Familiarity with kinetic theory formulas, specifically pV = (1/3)Nmc².
  • Knowledge of thermodynamic principles, including heat transfer and specific heat capacity.
  • Ability to perform unit conversions and dimensional analysis in physics problems.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between kinetic energy and temperature in gases.
  • Learn how to derive the ideal gas equation from kinetic theory principles.
  • Explore methods for calculating heat transfer in thermal systems, including the use of Q/t = -kA(temp diff/x).
  • Investigate common units of measurement in thermodynamics and their conversions.
USEFUL FOR

Students preparing for A-Level Physics exams, educators teaching thermodynamics and gas laws, and anyone seeking to improve their problem-solving skills in physics.

NeroBlade
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Hey folks I been going through past exam papers and got 4 questions which are hard to follow, for those that know please provide a detailed step by step guide. I have completed most of the previous parts of each question which got me some extra values.

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Question 1

OK here's what I have worked out so far:

Volume = 5*10^-3
Mass = 8*10^-3
Pressure = 900000
n = 2
molecular mass = 4
r.m.s Speed of all molecules = 1300

Question asks the r.m.s speed of all molecules when the Kelvin temperature has doubled. All I know is that speed is proportional to temperature.

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Question 2

Should be quick and simple

Use an ideal gas equation and kinetic theory formula pV = (1/3)Nmc^2 to show the equivalent formula is U = N * (1/2)mc^2

======
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Question 3

Pressure = 1.5*10^16
Density = 1.8*10^5
r.m.s Speed = 500000
Number of protons per m^3 = density/proton mass = 1.08*10^32

Question asks me to calculate the number of moles per m^3 and then the temperature.

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Question 4

Concerning a water radiator

Metal sheet dimensions = 0.9*1.5*0.005m
Solar Radiation arrives at 350W
Water pumped at (0.45/60)W
Temp' Difference = 26 - 15 degs = 11 degs
Mass of water = 1kg
Heat Capacity = 4200

Calculate the percentage of solar energy transferred to water.

Then, using the formula Q/t = -kA(temp diff/x)
Make a rough estimate of the temperature difference between top surface and bottom of aluminium sheet.

Any help would be great!
 
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I see that nobody has responded in almost 2 days. Actually there are reasons for this. For one, it's better to post each question as separate threads. Individuals may be able to help you with 1 or 2 questions, but are less inclined to respond when they see all these questions in one thread.

NeroBlade said:
Hey folks I been going through past exam papers and got 4 questions which are hard to follow, for those that know please provide a detailed step by step guide. I have completed most of the previous parts of each question which got me some extra values.

=======
Question 1

OK here's what I have worked out so far:

Volume = 5*10^-3
Mass = 8*10^-3
Pressure = 900000
n = 2
molecular mass = 4
r.m.s Speed of all molecules = 1300

Question asks the r.m.s speed of all molecules when the Kelvin temperature has doubled. All I know is that speed is proportional to temperature.

Not true. However, Kinetic energy is proportional to temperature. That fact, and the relation between speed and kinetic energy, will help here.

Question 2

Should be quick and simple

Use an ideal gas equation and kinetic theory formula pV = (1/3)Nmc^2 to show the equivalent formula is U = N * (1/2)mc^2

According to our forum rules, you'll need to show an attempt at solving this, or at least give your thoughts on how to start solving it, before getting help. This is another reason why nobody has replied until now.

(You took a starting stab at Question 1, so I responded with a hint for that one.)

Question 3

Pressure = 1.5*10^16
Density = 1.8*10^5
r.m.s Speed = 500000
Number of protons per m^3 = density/proton mass = 1.08*10^32

Question asks me to calculate the number of moles per m^3 and then the temperature.
Again, show your thoughts on what might be done to solve this. Also: UNITS UNITS UNITS. There are many different pressure units used for these problems: atm, mm Hg, and N/m2 to name the more common ones. Is that density in moles/cm3? kg/m3? Other?

Question 4

Concerning a water radiator

Metal sheet dimensions = 0.9*1.5*0.005m
Solar Radiation arrives at 350W
Water pumped at (0.45/60)W
What does that mean? I've never heard of water pump rates expressed in Watts. It's usually mass/time or volume/time for flow rate.

Temp' Difference = 26 - 15 degs = 11 degs
Mass of water = 1kg
Heat Capacity = 4200

Calculate the percentage of solar energy transferred to water.

Then, using the formula Q/t = -kA(temp diff/x)
Make a rough estimate of the temperature difference between top surface and bottom of aluminium sheet.

Any help would be great!

I suggest starting new separate threads for #'s 2, 3, and 4. That, and giving your thoughts on how to approach solving them. Again, it's just that you're more likely to get help that way.

Good luck. :smile:
 

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