Skip to content
Login Register

#thermodynamic equilibrium

3 public questions tagged with this topic.

Cyclic Processes and Reversibility Concepts

In a reversible process, what condition must be met regarding the system and surroundings?

**Cyclic process** system returns to initial state, ΔU=0 over cycle, net work W_net = area enclosed in P-V diagram, Q_net = W_net from first law ΔU= Q - W =0 => Q_net = W_net, clockwise cycle work done by system positive, counterclockwise work done on system negative, efficiency η = W_net/Q_in. A process is reversible if it can be reversed, returning both the system and surroundings to their original states without any net change elsewhere. This requires quasi-static conditions and no dissipative effects like friction. Using first law ΔU = Q - W, W = ∫ P dV, isobaric W = P ΔV, isothermal W

Ref: NCERT > Physics Book > Thermodynamics > Cyclic Processes and Reversibility Concepts

View Details
Zeroth Law Thermal Equilibrium and Quasi-static

What is the key characteristic of a thermodynamic equilibrium state?

**Quasi-static process** infinitely slow, system always near equilibrium, reversible, can be represented as continuous path on P-V diagram, non-quasi-static rapid process non-equilibrium, work W = ∫ P_ext dV, for quasi-static P_ext = P_system, work = ∫ P dV, zeroth law ensures temperature defined throughout quasi-static. A system in thermodynamic equilibrium has constant macroscopic variables (e.g., pressure, volume, temperature) over time, indicating no net changes or flows within the system or with its surroundings. Using first law ΔU = Q - W, W = ∫ P dV, isobaric W = P ΔV, isothermal W = n R T ln(V₂/V₁), adiabatic P V^γ = const and η

Ref: NCERT > Physics Book > Thermodynamics > Zeroth Law Thermal Equilibrium and Quasi-static

View Details
Thermodynamics

Which condition is true at equilibrium?

ΔG = 0 is the scientifically accurate answer to this question. Within the study of Thermodynamics, this concept is well-established through extensive research and is documented in standard scientific literature. The specific properties, mechanisms, or characteristics of ΔG = 0 directly address what is being asked. Among the other options, ΔS = 0, ΔH = 0, and Work done is maximum do not correctly answer this question because they either refer to different concepts, describe properties of other molecules or processes, or represent common misconceptions about this topic.

Ref: Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry, Nelson & Cox, 8th Ed., Ch. 1

View Details