Thermodynamics: Adiabatic Processes

What is an adiabatic process?

Does adiabatic expansion increase the internal energy of the system?

What is the equation for an ideal gas undergoing an adiabatic, irreversible process at constant external pressure?

The pressure drop during adiabatic expansion is smaller than that during isothermal expansion.

The system under isothermal conditions will end up with a larger volume than the adiabatic system.

Why does an isothermal process do more work than the analogous adiabatic process?

Adiabatic Process Overview

An adiabatic process involves no transfer of thermal energy, represented mathematically as q = 0.
Energy transfer occurs solely through work, leading to the equation dU = w for adiabatic systems.

Internal Energy Changes

During adiabatic expansion, internal energy of the system decreases.
Expansion increases the volume, dispersing gas particles, which reduces collision rates and kinetic energy.

Adiabatic Irreversible Process Equation

For an ideal gas in an adiabatic irreversible process at constant external pressure, use the equation: Tf(1 + nR/Cv) = Ti(1 + nRPext/CvPi).

Pressure Change Comparisons

In adiabatic expansion, pressure drops more significantly compared to an isothermal expansion.

Volume Comparison Between Processes

When comparing isothermal and adiabatic processes with the same pressure decrease, the isothermal process yields a greater volume.

Work Done in Expansion

An isothermal process performs more work than an analogous adiabatic process.
This is due to the heat transfer in isothermal conditions, which aids in further expansion beyond just work done.

This quiz focuses on adiabatic processes in thermodynamics, covering key definitions and principles. Test your understanding of energy transfer and internal energy during adiabatic expansion and compression. Perfect for students studying thermodynamics or physics.