10. First Law of Thermodynamics Flashcards
(4 cards)
1
Q
Define internal energy.
A
Internal energy is the sum of the random distribution of microscopic kinetic energy and microscopic potential energy of all the atoms or molecules.
2
Q
By referencing one of the assumptions of the kinetic theory of gases, deduce what is meant by the internal energy of an ideal gas.
A
There are no intermolecular forces between particles, hence no potential energy. Internal energy is kinetic energy of the randomly-moving particles.
3
Q
State what is meant by the absolute zero of temperature.
A
The substance with this temperature has the smallest possible internal energy.
4
Q
State in what way the absolute scale of temperature differs from other temperature scales.
A
It does not depend on thermometric property of any particular substance.
