- #1
jemb
- 11
- 0
If a question asks for the "quantity of work input to the pump" is it acceptable to present the answer as positive.
I think so because the direction of energy transfer has been defined in the question itself hence there is no need for a sign on the answer. All that's asked for is the quantity. However my thermodynamics lecturer disagrees and is refusing to award the marks for the answer in a recent coursework submission.
I understand why work input in thermodynamics is negative, but surely an unsigned figure is permissible if the direction of energy transfer is defined for you.
Am i wrong?
I think so because the direction of energy transfer has been defined in the question itself hence there is no need for a sign on the answer. All that's asked for is the quantity. However my thermodynamics lecturer disagrees and is refusing to award the marks for the answer in a recent coursework submission.
I understand why work input in thermodynamics is negative, but surely an unsigned figure is permissible if the direction of energy transfer is defined for you.
Am i wrong?