First Law of Thermodynamics

Rarely Tested

First Law of Thermodynamics

### Formula

$$Q=\Delta U+W$$

### Alternative Form

$$\Delta U=Q-W$$

### Terminologies

- Q β†’ Heat supplied to system.

- Ξ”U β†’ Change in internal energy.

- W β†’ Work done by system.

### Conditions / Special Cases

Sign convention:

Heat supplied:

$$Q>0$$

Heat released:

$$Q<0$$

Work done by system:

$$W>0$$

Work done on system:

$$W<0$$

### Usage

- Used in all thermodynamic process calculations.

Question 1

Ten moles of an ideal monatomic gas, initially in state $$\boldsymbol{a}$$ at atmospheric pressure and temperature $$T_a=27^\circ\mathrm{C}$$, is enclosed in a metal cylinder of volume $$V_0$$ fitted with a frictionless piston. The gas is suddenly compressed to state $$\boldsymbol{b}$$ with volume $$V_0/3$$. Now, keeping the piston stationary, the cylinder is submerged in a water bath of temperature $$11^\circ\mathrm{C}$$ until the gas reaches the temperature of the water bath, which is denoted as state $$\boldsymbol{c}$$. Finally, while still in the water bath, the piston is brought slowly to its initial position, which is denoted as state $$\boldsymbol{f}$$. If $$R$$ is universal gas constant, then the correct option(s) is/are:

[Given: $$9^{1/3}=2.08$$]

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