Given: Heat released Q = 200 J, Mass m = 6 Kg, Specific Heat c = 0.8 J/KgoC The temperature is given by ΔT = Q / mc = 200 / 6 x 0.8 ΔT= 41.66oC
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Given: Temperature change = 40oC Mass m = 3 kg, Specific heat c = 0.7 J/kgoC The Heat released is given by formula Q = mc ΔT = 3 × 0.7 × 40 Q = 84 J
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MACROSCOPIC APPROACH | MICROSCOPIC APPROACH |
In this approach, a certain quantity of matter is considered without taking into account the events occurring at the molecular level. | The matter is considered to be comprised of a large number of tiny particles known as molecules, which move randomly in a disordered fashion. The effect of molecular motion is considered. |
An analysis is concerned with the overall behaviour of the system. | Knowledge of the structure of matter is essential in analysing the behaviour of the system. |
This approach is used in the study of classical thermodynamics. | This approach is used in the study of statistical thermodynamics. |
A few properties are required to describe the system. | Large numbers of variables are required to describe the system. |
The properties like pressure, temperature, etc. needed to describe the system, can be easily measured. | The properties like velocity, momentum, kinetic energy, etc. needed to describe the system, cannot be measured easily. |
The properties of the system are their average values. | The properties are defined for each molecule individually. |
This approach requires simple mathematical formulas for analysing the system. | No. of molecules is very large so it requires an advanced statistical and mathematical method to explain any change in the system |
Interaction | Mechanical | Thermal |
Requires | Force and Displacement | Temperature difference |
Process | Macroscopic pushes and pulls | Microscopic collisions |
Positive value | W > 0 when a gas is compressed. Energy is transferred into system. | Q > 0 when the environment is at a higher temperature than the system. Energy is transferred into system. |
Negative value | W < 0 when a gas expands. Energy is transferred out of system. | Q < 0 when the system is at a higher temperature than the environment. Energy is transferred out of system. |
Equilibrium | A system is in mechanical equilibrium when there is no net force or torque on it. | A system is in thermal equilibrium when it is at the same temperature as the environment. |