Work, temperature and energy in a constant pressure process

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the calculations of work, temperature, and energy changes in a constant pressure process using specific heat capacities, Cp and Cv. The initial user incorrectly calculated the final temperature and internal energy change, leading to an erroneous work calculation. The correct final temperature, T2, is determined to be 350 ºF using the equation T2 = T1 + Q/(m * Cp). The internal energy change, ΔU, is calculated as 420 BTU, and the work done by the system is 80 BTU, following the first law of thermodynamics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermodynamic principles, specifically the first law of thermodynamics.
  • Familiarity with specific heat capacities, Cp and Cv, and their applications.
  • Ability to perform calculations involving heat transfer and energy changes.
  • Knowledge of units used in thermodynamics, such as BTU and pounds.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the first law of thermodynamics and its applications in various processes.
  • Learn about the differences between Cp and Cv and their significance in thermodynamic calculations.
  • Explore practical examples of constant pressure processes in engineering contexts.
  • Investigate common mistakes in thermodynamic calculations and how to avoid them.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students and professionals in thermodynamics, mechanical engineering, and chemical engineering, particularly those involved in energy systems and heat transfer analysis.

Krokodrile
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Homework Statement
8 pounds of a gas with cp = 0.25 btu/lbm(ºF) and cv = 0.18 btu/lbm(ºF) that is at 100 ºF, is placed in a piston cylinder and 500 btu is delivered as heat in a no-flow process at constant pressure. Determine the final temperature, the internal energy change, and the work done
Relevant Equations
Q=m*C*△T
W = △U + Q
So, the Cp and Cv its very confusing for me. But, i understand what's its happening in this process, so, i use the logic and first i obtain a ecuation for obtain the final temperature ecuaticon:

Q=m*C*△T
Q=m*C*(T2-T1)
T2=(Q+T1)/(m*C)

If the process its in constant pressure, i use the Cp valor:

T2=(500 +100ºF)/(8 pounds * 0.25btu/lbm(ºF)
T2 = 300 ºF

So, i determinate the internal energy change using this ecuacion:

△U= 36 Cv*△T
△U = 0.18 btu/lbm(ºF) * (300 ºF - 100 ºF)
△U = 36 btu/lbm(ºF)

For the work:

W = △U + Q
W = 36 btu/lbm(ºF) `+ 500 btu
W = 536

I know that my results its incorrect, but these "Cp and Cv" confusing to me.

I need some help please :).
 
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You had the right idea, but in addition to understanding the physical principles, you need to do the math correctly. $$T_2=T_1+\frac{Q}{MC_p}=100+\frac{500}{(8)(0.25)}=350\ F$$
$$\Delta U=MC_v(350-100)=(8)(0.21)(250)=420\ BTU$$Your equation for the first law is incorrect. It should read $$\Delta U=Q-W$$where W is the work done by the system on its surroundings. $$W=Q-\Delta U=500-420=80\ BTU$$
 
Chestermiller said:
You had the right idea, but in addition to understanding the physical principles, you need to do the math correctly. $$T_2=T_1+\frac{Q}{MC_p}=100+\frac{500}{(8)(0.25)}=350\ F$$
$$\Delta U=MC_v(350-100)=(8)(0.21)(250)=420\ BTU$$Your equation for the first law is incorrect. It should read $$\Delta U=Q-W$$where W is the work done by the system on its surroundings. $$W=Q-\Delta U=500-420=80\ BTU$$
Ohhh, thank you so much. I see now where its my mistake, well ;) I am happy to understand by myself this problem.
 
Chestermiller said:
You had the right idea, but in addition to understanding the physical principles, you need to do the math correctly. $$T_2=T_1+\frac{Q}{MC_p}=100+\frac{500}{(8)(0.25)}=350\ F$$
$$\Delta U=MC_v(350-100)=(8)(0.21)(250)=420\ BTU$$Your equation for the first law is incorrect. It should read $$\Delta U=Q-W$$where W is the work done by the system on its surroundings. $$W=Q-\Delta U=500-420=80\ BTU$$
Excuse me Sir. In the class, when the teacher give us the answer of the problems, she use the △T for determinate the △U and W, so, the results was different:

△T = △H / m*Cp = 500 BTU/ (8lb) (0.25 BTU/lbmF) = 250 F

△U = m*Cv*△T = (8 lb) (0.18 BTU/lbmF) (250 F) = 360 BTU

W = Q - △U = 500 BTU - 360 BTU = 140 BTU

Its this correct? why she use △T and not T2?

The final temperatura its correct in both cases.

Thank you for read.
 
Krokodrile said:
Excuse me Sir. In the class, when the teacher give us the answer of the problems, she use the △T for determinate the △U and W, so, the results was different:

△T = △H / m*Cp = 500 BTU/ (8lb) (0.25 BTU/lbmF) = 250 F

△U = m*Cv*△T = (8 lb) (0.18 BTU/lbmF) (250 F) = 360 BTU
The version of Cv that I remember seeing was Cv=0.21. With 0.18, this is correct.
Krokodrile said:
W = Q - △U = 500 BTU - 360 BTU = 140 BTU

Its this correct? why she use △T and not T2?
Why do you think she has not gotten W calculated correctly. It is correct.
Krokodrile said:
The final temperatura its correct in both cases.
Of course the final temperature is correct in both cases. There is only one final temperature.
Krokodrile said:
Thank you for read.
 

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