Why Is Cv Used in This Example?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the use of Cv, the specific heat at constant volume, in calculating the entropy change (delta S) for a monatomic ideal gas transitioning from state 1 to state 2. The specific heat values are defined as Cv = (3/2)R and Cp = (5/2)R. The formula for delta S is derived from the principles of thermodynamics, specifically using the equation delta S = nR(V2/V1) + nCvln(T2/T1). The participants clarify that Cv is applicable despite the process not occurring at constant pressure or volume, as it relates to the internal energy change of the gas.

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noob314
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Can someone explain to me why Cv is used in this example?

Determine delta S for the conversion of a monatomic ideal gas from state 1 to state 2.
Cv = (3/2)R, Cp = (5/2)R
State 1: V1 = 22.0L, P1 = 1.25atm, T1 = 308K, n=0.917mol
State 2: V2 = 34.0L, P2 = 0.700atm, T2=325K, n=0.917mol


delta S = nR(V2/V1) + nCvln(T2/T1)

From what I can see, the process doesn't look like it's carried out in either constant pressure nor constant volume. If that answer is correct, then why is Cp not used?
 
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The entropy change comes from the differential energy equation

dU=T\,dS-P\,dV\Rightarrow dS=\frac{dU}{T}+\frac{P\,dV}{T}

the ideal gas equation

PV=nRT

and the equation for ideal gas energy

U=U_0+nc_VT\Rightarrow dU=nc_V\,dT=n(c_P-R)dT

c_V=c_P-R is just a constant here. It doesn't imply that any process occurs at constant volume or pressure.
 

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