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Thermal Physics
Quick questions on Internal energy and the first law of thermodynamics: H2 Physics Thermal Physics
6short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
What is internal energy?Show answer
The internal energy of a system is the sum of the random kinetic and potential energies of all its molecules. The kinetic part is due to molecular motion (translational, and for molecules also rotational and vibrational); the potential part is due to intermolecular forces.
What is the first law of thermodynamics?Show answer
The first law states that the increase in internal energy of a system equals the thermal energy supplied to it plus the work done on it:
What are work done by an expanding gas?Show answer
When a gas at pressure expands by a small volume at constant pressure, the work done by the gas is:
What is q1?Show answer
Define the internal energy of a system and state what it depends on for an ideal gas. [2 marks]
What is q2?Show answer
A gas releases of heat to the surroundings while of work is done on it. Find the change in internal energy. [2 marks]
What is q3?Show answer
Explain why the temperature of a gas rises when it is compressed adiabatically. [3 marks]
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