Introduction to thermodynamics question

In summary, the conversation discusses a question about the highlighted part in an image related to thermodynamics. The equation in question involves the area ratio of two ends of a tube and the decrease in height of mercury and brine columns. The question asks why the equation is formed in this way and why there is a sum of the decrease in height for both the left and right tubes. The conversation also mentions a typo in the equation.
  • #1
yecko
Gold Member
279
15

Homework Statement


In the image, as the first chapter of thermodynamics class, I understand all things in the answer except the highlighted part (lower bottom of the image). It is not directly related to thermodynamics but about the area ratio of the two ends of the tube, but I do not understand why is the equation formed this way.
Δh (which is a decrease) should be only there in the right tube as indicated, why is it a sum of Δh of both left and right? why Δh(Hg,left)=Δh(Br) and Δh(Hg,right)=Δh(Br)*A2/A1 as well?
Thank you very much for any help!
1008c01e-4a03-44c1-8fa2-fdb3ce47e373
1Pjks2P.png

(http://i.imgur.com/1Pjks2P.png )

2. Homework Equations
(In the image)

The Attempt at a Solution


(In the image)
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Your question isn't clear. The differential heights of both the mercury and the brine columns increase. You can see that from where the dotted lines are in the figure. (Incidentally, there is a typo in the 2nd of Eqns. 1. The first equal sign should be a + sign.
 

FAQ: Introduction to thermodynamics question

What is thermodynamics?

Thermodynamics is a branch of physics that deals with the study of energy and its transformations in physical systems, including heat and work.

What are the laws of thermodynamics?

The laws of thermodynamics are fundamental principles that govern energy and its transformations in physical systems. They include the first law, which states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed, and the second law, which states that the total entropy of a closed system always increases over time.

How is thermodynamics applied in real life?

Thermodynamics has numerous real-world applications, including in the design of engines and power plants, refrigeration and air conditioning systems, and chemical reactions. It is also used in fields such as meteorology, astrophysics, and materials science.

What is the difference between heat and temperature in thermodynamics?

Heat is a form of energy that is transferred between objects due to a temperature difference. Temperature, on the other hand, is a measure of the average kinetic energy of particles in a substance. In thermodynamics, heat and temperature are related, but they are not the same thing.

What are some common misconceptions about thermodynamics?

Some common misconceptions about thermodynamics include the belief that energy is created or destroyed, that heat and temperature are the same thing, and that the second law of thermodynamics implies that disorder always increases. These are all incorrect and go against the principles of thermodynamics.

Similar threads

Multifluid manometer (pressure problem)
Replies
1
Views
3K
Enthelpy & Internal Energy Change relation with Cp & Cv
Replies
4
Views
2K
First law of thermodynamics & steady flow devices
Replies
24
Views
3K
Question about change in internal energy
Replies
2
Views
2K
Thermal Physics: Thermodynamic Identity
Replies
10
Views
2K
Calculate ideal-gas temperature of a material
Replies
2
Views
1K
Understanding Q=mcΔT and ΔH for Gases: Constant Pressure and Volume Concepts
Replies
9
Views
16K
Bernoulli's Equation and pressure differences
Replies
1
Views
2K
Thermodynamic systems: spot the invalid fundamental equation
Replies
23
Views
9K
Concept of Absolute Thermodynamic Activity
Replies
1
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top