Adiabatic process
Definition
An adiabatic process is a thermodynamic process in which no heat is exchanged with the surroundings. In such processes, changes in internal energy are solely due to work done by or on the system.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- In an adiabatic process, $Q = 0$, where $Q$ denotes heat exchange.
- The first law of thermodynamics for an adiabatic process simplifies to $\Delta U = -W$, where $\Delta U$ is the change in internal energy and $W$ is the work done by the system.
- Adiabatic processes can occur rapidly so that there is no time for heat exchange.
- For an ideal gas undergoing an adiabatic process, the relation between pressure and volume is given by $PV^\gamma = constant$, where $\gamma$ (gamma) is the heat capacity ratio ($C_p / C_v$).
- In a reversible adiabatic process, also known as an isentropic process, entropy remains constant.
Review Questions
- What condition must be met for a thermodynamic process to be considered adiabatic?
- How does the first law of thermodynamics simplify for an adiabatic process?
- What equation relates pressure and volume for an ideal gas during an adiabatic process?
"Adiabatic process" appears in:
Subjects (1)
Related terms
Isothermal Process: A thermodynamic process in which the temperature remains constant.
Isobaric Process: A thermodynamic process that occurs at a constant pressure.
Isochoric Process: A thermodynamic process that takes place at constant volume.
