Semester 1: Questions Flashcards
(269 cards)
Define thermodynamics
Relations between macroscopic quantities, such as heat and other forms of energy, without understanding the statistical origin.
Define statistical physics
The explanation of thermodynamic laws, requiring the use of thermodynamic relationships in order to explain the physics.
Define vulcanisation
The curing of elastomers, such as latex, into solid rubber.
What is a system?
Whatever part of the universe we choose to study.
What is the surrounding?
Parts of the universe that are not chosen to study.
What is a phase?
A region within a system that is homogeneous and has well defined boundaries.
What is a closed system?
When there is no particle exchange between the system and surroundings.
What is an adiathermal system?
No heat exchange allowed between the system and surrounding (a thermally isolated system).
What is an adiabatic system?
An adiathermal and reversible system (often used synonymously with adiathermal).
Define isothermal
A constant temperature.
Define isobaric
A constant pressure.
Define isovolumic
A constant volume.
Define equilibrium
A state without apparent change. For example, a cease of heat flow refers to thermal equilibrium and fixed boundaries refers to mechanical equilibrium. Equilibrium allows functions of state to be defined.
What is a function of state?
Any quantity that has a well defined value for each equilibrium state (not including microscopic quantities such as particle velocity). In thermodynamics these are often referred to as thermodynamic functions, thermodynamic coordinates, or thermodynamic variables.
What is an extensive function of state (with examples)?
A function of state that is proportional to the system size. Examples: energy, volume, and magnetisation.
What is an intensive function of state (with examples)?
A function of state that is independent of the size of the system. Examples: temperature, pressure, and magnetic field.
Are microscopic quantities functions of state? Why?
They aren’t because they vary even when the system is in equilibrium.
Give two examples of properties that aren’t functions of state. Why aren’t they functions of state?
- Work done
- Heat transferred
These properties depend on the process that causes the energy transfer as well as the states involved.
Define the zero-th law of thermodynamics
Two systems in thermal equilibrium with a third are also in thermal equilibrium with each other.
What is the equation that relates temperature in Fahrenheit to temperature in Celsius?
F = temperature in Fahrenheit
C = temperature in Celsius
What is a thermometer?
An instrument for measuring and indicating temperature, typically designed based on thermal expansion.
Who developed the 3 types of thermometers?
- Galileo Galilei
- Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit
- Anders Celsius
How does the Galilei thermometer work?
Air is trapped in a cylinder that floats or sinks in liquid depending on its temperature.
How does the Fahrenheit thermometer work?
It is a refined version of the Galilei thermometer that uses glass tubes and the Fahrenheit temperature scale.