Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Internal energy

Internal energy — practice question

(a)[2]

State the meaning of the internal energy of a system.

(b)

An ideal gas goes through a cycle of changes as shown in Fig. 2.1. At point $P$, the gas has volume $950\,\text{cm}^3$, pressure $2.10 \times 10^5\,\text{Pa}$ and temperature $280\,\text{K}$. The gas is heated at constant volume, and $97.0\,\text{J}$ of thermal energy is transferred to it. Its pressure and temperature alter so that the gas reaches point $Q$ on Fig. 2.1. The gas then undergoes the change from point $Q$ to point $R$ and then from point $R$ back to point $P$, as shown on Fig. 2.1.

(b(i))[2]

State the overall change in internal energy of the gas in the full cycle $P Q R P$. Justify your answer.

(b(ii)-1)

On Fig. 2.2, fill in the energy changes for the gas during the change $P \rightarrow Q$.

(b(ii)-2)

On Fig. 2.2, fill in the energy changes for the gas during the change $Q \rightarrow R$.

(b(ii)-3)[5]

On Fig. 2.2, fill in the energy changes for the gas during the change $R \rightarrow P$.

(i)[2]

State the overall change in internal energy of the gas during the complete cycle PQRP. Explain your answer.

(ii)[5]

On Fig. 2.2, fill in the energy changes for the gas during (1) the change P $\rightarrow$ Q, (2) the change Q $\rightarrow$ R, (3) the change R $\rightarrow$ P.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 16-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: combined kinetic and potential energies (of molecules/atoms/particles)

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI