How to solve the question. I am learning thermodynamics and unable to solve this question I need if anyone can help

When tackling a question in thermodynamics, it's essential to break it down into manageable parts. Let's go through a systematic approach to solving thermodynamic problems, which will help you not only with this specific question but also with future ones.

Understanding the Problem

First, read the question carefully. Identify what is being asked. Are you looking for a change in energy, temperature, pressure, or volume? Highlight key terms and concepts related to the laws of thermodynamics, such as the first law (energy conservation), the second law (entropy), or specific processes (isothermal, adiabatic, etc.).

Identify Given Information

Next, list out all the information provided in the question. This could include values for pressure, volume, temperature, and the type of substance involved. For instance, if you're dealing with an ideal gas, you might have the number of moles, initial and final temperatures, and pressures.

• Write down known values.
• Note any constants you might need, such as the gas constant (R).
• Identify the type of process (isothermal, adiabatic, etc.).

Choose the Right Equations

Once you have a clear understanding of the problem and the information at hand, select the appropriate thermodynamic equations. For example:

• If the problem involves an ideal gas, you might use the ideal gas law: PV = nRT.
• For energy changes, consider the first law of thermodynamics: ΔU = Q - W, where ΔU is the change in internal energy, Q is heat added to the system, and W is work done by the system.
• If the process is isothermal, remember that temperature remains constant, which simplifies calculations.

Perform Calculations

With the relevant equations in hand, substitute the known values into the equations. Be careful with units; ensure they are consistent throughout your calculations. If necessary, convert units to match (e.g., converting liters to cubic meters or Celsius to Kelvin).

Analyze the Results

After performing the calculations, take a moment to analyze your results. Does the answer make sense in the context of the problem? Check if the units are appropriate and if the magnitude of the answer aligns with your expectations based on the physical situation described.

Example Problem

Let’s say you have a question that asks for the final pressure of an ideal gas after it is compressed isothermally from 10 liters to 5 liters at a constant temperature of 300 K. You know the initial pressure is 2 atm. Here’s how you would approach it:

1. Identify the initial conditions: P1 = 2 atm, V1 = 10 L, V2 = 5 L.
2. Use the ideal gas law and the fact that for isothermal processes, P1V1 = P2V2.
3. Rearranging gives you: P2 = (P1V1) / V2.
4. Substituting the values: P2 = (2 atm * 10 L) / 5 L = 4 atm.

Thus, the final pressure after compression is 4 atm. This systematic approach can be applied to various thermodynamic problems, helping you build a solid foundation in the subject.