When do formulas for adiabatic processes apply?

In summary, an adiabatic process is a thermodynamic process in which there is no heat transfer between the system and its surroundings. The formulas for adiabatic processes apply when there is no heat transfer involved, and the main assumptions include isolation, quickness, and reversibility. Adiabatic processes can occur in real-life situations, such as in a car engine, and they differ from isothermal processes in that there is no heat transfer and the temperature of the system can change.
  • #1
phantomvommand
242
38
Homework Statement
Please see the attached photo
Relevant Equations
Change in internal energy = nCvT
Screenshot 2021-03-14 at 4.29.36 PM.png


In this problem, the method used to solve the question is to equate pdV with change in internal energy. This implies an adiabatic process as Q = 0? (not sure about this claim) However, why is it not correct to simply apply the PV^ϒ = constant formula?

Thank you.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
phantomvommand said:
why is it not correct to simply apply the PV^ϒ = constant formula?
What would you apply that to? You cannot apply it to the system as a whole since there are two initial pressures. You cannot apply it to one partition since there is heat flow between them.
 
  • Like
Likes phantomvommand

1. When do adiabatic processes occur?

Adiabatic processes occur when there is no heat exchange between a system and its surroundings. This means that the system is insulated and there is no transfer of energy in the form of heat.

2. What is the difference between adiabatic and isothermal processes?

The main difference between adiabatic and isothermal processes is that adiabatic processes do not involve any heat exchange, while isothermal processes occur at a constant temperature.

3. How do adiabatic processes affect the internal energy of a system?

In an adiabatic process, the internal energy of a system remains constant. This is because there is no heat exchange, so the energy of the system remains the same.

4. Can adiabatic processes be reversible?

Yes, adiabatic processes can be reversible. In a reversible adiabatic process, the system is able to return to its initial state without any energy loss or gain. This requires the process to be carried out very slowly.

5. What are some real-life examples of adiabatic processes?

Some common examples of adiabatic processes include the compression or expansion of a gas in a piston, the movement of air in a bicycle pump, and the formation of clouds in the atmosphere due to the expansion of air as it rises.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
19
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
789
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
663
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
894
Replies
1
Views
533
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
25
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
137
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
956
Back
Top