Physics 0625 · IGCSE · Transfer of thermal energy

Transfer of thermal energy — practice question

A gas of mass $0.23\,\text{g}$ is confined in a cylinder by a piston. The gas is under atmospheric pressure, which is $1.0 \times 10^5\,\text{Pa}$. Fig. 4.1 shows the piston fixed in place by a catch. The diagram carries the labels gas, cylinder, air at atmospheric pressure, piston, heater, and catch. The trapped gas has a volume of $1.9 \times 10^{-4}\,\text{m}^3$. An electrical heater is used to raise the temperature of the trapped gas by $550^{\circ}\text{C}$.
(a(i))[2]

Calculate the energy needed to raise the temperature of the trapped gas by $550^{\circ}\text{C}$.

(a(ii)(1))[2]

Calculate how long it takes the heater to supply the energy found in (a)(i).

(a(ii)(2))[1]

Suggest one reason why, in practice, it takes much longer to raise the temperature of the gas by $550^{\circ}\text{C}$ using the heater.

(b(i))[2]

State and explain the piston’s motion.

(b(ii))[2]

Determine the volume of the gas when the piston comes to rest.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 9-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: E=mcΔT

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