Why the first law of thermodynamics is different in physics and chemistry?

Fundamentally, thermodynamics in physics and chemistry is the same. The only difference is the notation of work in both, with work done by the system taken as positive in physics, and work done on the system taken as positive in chemistry. So, this is the distinction between the thermodynamics of physics and chemistry!

What is first law of thermodynamics in physics?

The First Law of Thermodynamics states that heat is a form of energy, and thermodynamic processes are therefore subject to the principle of conservation of energy. This means that heat energy cannot be created or destroyed. The fundamental principles of thermodynamics are expressed in four laws.

What is first law of thermodynamics and its limitations?

The limitation of the first law of thermodynamics is that it does not say anything about the direction of flow of heat. It does not say anything whether the process is a spontaneous process or not. The reverse process is not possible. In actual practice, the heat doesn’t convert completely into work.

Why work done by system is positive in physics and negative in chemistry?

The work done by a gas expanding against an external pressure is therefore negative, corresponding to work done by a system on its surroundings. Conversely, when a gas is compressed by an external pressure, ΔV < 0 and the work is positive because work is being done on a system by its surroundings.

Why is it that the first law of thermodynamics also called the Law of Conservation of Energy?

The exchanges of external work and heat complete the energy balance. That is why the first law of thermodynamics is referred to as the conservation of energy principle, meaning that energy can neither be created nor destroyed, but rather transformed into various forms as the fluid within the control volume changes.

Why is the 1st law of thermodynamics important?

The first law of thermodynamics, arguably the most important, is an expression of the principle of conservation of energy. Consistent with this principle, the first law expresses that energy can be transformed (i.e. changed from one form to another), but cannot be created or destroyed.

What is the equation for the first law of thermodynamics?

The equation for the first law of thermodynamics is given as; ΔU = q + W

Why is q positive in the first law of thermodynamics?

Moreover, the surrounding area will lose heat and carry out some work onto the system. So if we look at q and w they are positive in the equation and this is mainly due to the system gaining some heat and work being done on itself. Here we will discuss the limitations of the first law of thermodynamics.

How does the law of thermodynamics change the concept of Conservation of energy?

It redefines the conservation of energy concept. The First Law of Thermodynamics states that heat is a form of energy, and thermodynamic processes are therefore subject to the principle of conservation of energy. This means that heat energy cannot be created or destroyed.

What is thermodynamics in physics?

Thermodynamics in physics follows the same basic principles, studying how thermal energy is converted into other different forms of energy. Here, heat, temperature, specific heat, and latent heat are concepts which are studied.