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Adiabatic Process Equation:
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The adiabatic process is a thermodynamic process in which no heat is exchanged between the system and its surroundings. For an ideal gas undergoing an adiabatic process, the relationship between pressure and volume is described by the equation \( P V^\gamma = \text{constant} \), where γ is the adiabatic index.
The calculator uses the adiabatic process equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation describes how pressure and volume change in relation to each other during an adiabatic process, where the adiabatic index γ depends on the molecular structure of the gas.
Details: Adiabatic processes are fundamental in thermodynamics and have practical applications in various fields including internal combustion engines, compressors, atmospheric physics, and refrigeration systems.
Tips: Enter pressure in Pascals, volume in cubic meters, and the adiabatic index (γ). Typical values for γ are 1.4 for diatomic gases like air, 1.67 for monatomic gases like helium, and 1.3 for polyatomic gases.
Q1: What is the adiabatic index (γ)?
A: The adiabatic index, also known as the ratio of specific heats, is the ratio of the heat capacity at constant pressure (Cp) to the heat capacity at constant volume (Cv).
Q2: What are typical values of γ for common gases?
A: For monatomic gases (He, Ne, Ar): γ ≈ 1.67; for diatomic gases (N₂, O₂, air): γ ≈ 1.4; for polyatomic gases (CO₂, CH₄): γ ≈ 1.3.
Q3: How does temperature change in an adiabatic process?
A: In an adiabatic expansion, temperature decreases; in an adiabatic compression, temperature increases, even though no heat is exchanged.
Q4: What is the difference between adiabatic and isothermal processes?
A: In adiabatic processes, no heat is exchanged (Q=0), while in isothermal processes, temperature remains constant. Adiabatic processes follow PV^γ=constant, while isothermal processes follow PV=constant.
Q5: What are real-world examples of adiabatic processes?
A: Examples include the compression stroke in diesel engines, rapid inflation/deflation of bicycle tires, atmospheric air rising and cooling, and sound wave propagation.