CBSE

Class 11 physics
Important Questions
Chapter 12
Thermodynamics

1 Marks Questions

1.If a air is a cylinder is suddenly compressed by a piston. What happens to the

pressure of air?

Ans.Since the sudden compression causes heating and rise in temperature and if the piston
is maintained at same Position then the pressure falls as temperature decreases.

2. What is the ratio of find volume to initial volume if the gas is compressed
adiabatically till its temperature is doubled?

Ans.Since for an adiabatic Process,

PVY= constant

Since PV = RT

P =

So, constant

Or TV y - 1 = constant T1, V1 = Initial temperature and Initial Volume

∴ T1 V1 y - 1 = T2 V2 y - 1 T2, V2 = Final temperature and Final volume.

1
Since T2 = 2 T1(Given)

So,

Since > 1, is less than .

3.What is the ratio of slopes of P-V graphs of adiabatic and isothermal process?

Ans.The slope of P-V graph is

For an isothermal process, (PV = constant)

So,

For an adiabatic process ( PVY = constant)

Divide 2) by 1)

So, the ratio of adiabatic slope to isothermal slope is Y.

4.What is the foundation of Thermodynamics?

Ans.The foundation of thermodynamics is the law of conservation of energy and the fact the
heat flows from a hot body to a cold body.

5.Differentiate between isothermal and adiabatic process?

2
Ans.

Isothermal process
Adiabatic process

1) In this, temperature remains constant 1) In this, no heat is added or removed.

2) It occurs slowly 2) It occurs suddenly.
Here, system is thermally conducting to Here, system is thermally insulated from
3) 3)
surroundings surroundings.

State equation : → PVY = constant.

4) State equation :→ PV = constant 4)

6.A Carnot engine develops 100 H.P. and operates between 270C and 2270C. Find 1)
thermal efficiency; 2) heat supplied3) heat rejected?

Ans. Here, energy = W = 100 H. P.

= 100 × 746 W ( 1 H.P. = 746W)

High temperature, TH = 2270C = 227 + 273 = 500K

Low temperature, Th = 270C = 27 + 273 = 300K

1) Thermal efficiency,

2) The heat supplied QH is given by:-

3
3) The heat rejected QL is given by:-

or

7.Draw a p – v diagram for isothermal and adiabatic expansion?

Ans.

8.State zeroth law of thermodynamics?

Ans. Acc. to this, when the thermodynamic system A and B are separately in thermal
equilibrium with a third thermodynamic system C, then the system A and B are in thermal
equilibrium with each other also.

9.Can a gas be liquefied at any temperature by increase of pressure alone?

Ans. No, a gas can be liquefied by pressure alone, only when temperature of gas is below its
critical temperature.

4
10.Can you design heat energy of 100% efficiency?

Ans. Since efficiency of heat engine = 1- , so, efficiency will be 100% or 1 if T2 = OK or T1 =

α. Since both these conditions cannot be practically attained, so heat engine cannot have
100% efficiency.

11.If air is a bad conductor of heat, why do we not feel warm without clothes?

Ans.This is because when we are without clothes air carries away heat from our body due to
convection and we feel cold.

12.A body with large reflectivity is a poor emitter why?

Ans.This is because a body with large reflectivity is a poor absorber of heat and poor
absorbers are poor emitters.

13.Animals curl into a ball, when they feel very cold?

Ans.When animals curl, they decrease their surface area and since energy radiated varies
directly to surface area hence loss of heat due to radiation is also reduced.

14.Why is the energy of thermal radiation less than that of visible light?

Ans.The energy of an electromagnetic ware is given by :- E = hf

h = Planck’s constant; f = frequency of wave. Since the frequency of thermal radiation is less
than that of visible light, the energy associated with thermal radiation is less than associated
with visible light.

15.Two rods A and B are of equal length. Each rod has its ends at temperature T1 and T2

(T1 > T2). What is the condition that will ensure equal rates of flow through the rods A

and B?

5
Ans. Heat flow,

K = Thermal conductivity

A = Area

T1 = Temperature of hot body

T2 = Temperature of cold body

d = distance between hot and cold body.

Q = heat flow

When the rods have the same rate of conduction,

Q1 = Q2

K1, K2 → Thermal conductivity of first and second region

A1, A2 → Area of first and second region

or, K1 A1 = K2 A2

or

16.A Sphere is at a temperature of 6oo k. Its cooling rate is R in an external

environment of 200k. If temperature falls to 400k. What is the cooling rate R1 in terms

of R?

Ans.Acc. to Stefan’s law;

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E = constant T4

Also, R1 = constant (T24 – T14)

R = constant (T34 – T14)

T2 = heat of hot junction = 400K

T1 = heat of cold junction = 200K

T3 = heat of hot junction = 600K

R1 = constant

R1 = constant

Divide eq4 1) & 2)

Therefore,

17.If the temperature of the sun is doubled, the rate of energy received on each will

7
increases by what factor?

Ans.By Stefan’s law : →

Rate of energy radiated α T4

T = Temperature

E1 = constant T14

E2 = constant T24

T1 = Initial temperature

T2 = Final temperature

T2 = 2T1

T24 = (2)4 T14

T24 = 16T14

E2 = constant (16 T14)

E2 = 16 (constant T14)

E2 = 16 E1

18. On a winter night, you feel warmer when clouds cover the sky than when sky is
clear. Why?

Ans.We know that earth absorbs heat in day and radiates at night. When sky is covered, with
clouds, the heat radiated by earth is reflected back and earth becomes warmer. But if sky is
clear the heat radiated by earth escapes into space.

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19. If a body is heated from 270 C to 9270C then what will be the ratio of energies of
radiation emitted?

Ans.Since, By Stefan’s law:→

E = Energy radiated

T = Temperature.

E1, T1 Initial energy and temperature

E2, T2 Final energy and temperature.

T1 = 270C = 27+273 = 300K

T2 = 9270C = 927+273K = 1200K.

E = constant T4

So, E1 = constant T14

Equating equation 1) &2)

9
or E1 : E2 = 1 : 256

20. Which has a higher specific heat ; water or sand?

Ans.Water has higher specific heat than sand as

, where T = Temperature, Q = Heat, m = Mass,

C = Specific heat; Since for water temperature increases less slowly than sand hence the
result.

21. Why is latent heat of vaporization of a material greater than that of latent heat of
fusion?

Ans .When a liquid changes into a gas, there is large increase in the volume and a large
amount of work has to be done against the surrounding atmosphere and heat associated
with change from solid to gas is latent heat of vaporization and hence the answer.

22. Draw a P – V diagram for Liquid and gas at various temperatures showing critical
point?

Ans.

10
23. Why is temperature gradient required for flow of heat from one body to another?

Ans. Heat flows from higher temperature to lower temperature. Therefore, temperature
gradient (i.e. temperature difference) is required for the heat to flow one part of solid to
another.

24. Why are Calorimeters made up of metal only?

Ans. Calorimeters are made up of metal only because they are good conductor of heat and
hence the heat exchange is quick which the basic requirement for the working of
calorimeter.

25. If a body has infinite heat capacity? What does it signify?

Ans. Infinite heat capacity means that there will be no change in temperature whether heat
is taken out or given to the substance.

26. Define triple point of water?

Ans. Triple point of water represents the values of pressure and temperature at which water
co-exists in equilibrium in all the three states of matter.

27. State Dulong and petit law?

Ans.Acc. to this law, the specific heat of all the solids is constant at room temperature and is

11
equal to 3R.

28. Why the clock pendulums are made of invar, a material of low value of coefficient
of linear expansion?

Ans.The clock pendulums are made of Inver because it has low value of α (co-efficient of
linear expansion) i.e. for a small change in temperature, the length of pendulum will not
change much.

29. Why does the density of solid | liquid decreases with rise in temperature?

Ans.Let P = Density of solid | liquid at temperature T

P1 = Density of solid | liquid at Temperature T+∆T

Since Density =

So, P = →(1) P1 = (2)

V1 = Volume of solid at temperature T + ∆T

V = Volume of solid at temperature T

Since on increasing the temperature, solids | liquids expand that is their volumes increases,
so by equation

i) & 2) Density is inversely proportional to volumes, so if volume increases on increasing the

temperature, Density will decrease.

30. Two bodies at different temperatures T1, and T2 are brought in thermal contact do

not necessarily settle down to the mean temperature of T1 and T2?

Ans.Two bodies at diff temperatures T1 and T2 when in thermal contact do not settle always

at their mean temperature because the thermal capacities of two bodies may not be always

12
equal.

31. The resistance of certain platinum resistance thermometer is found to be 2.56 Ω at

00c and 3.56 Ω at 1000c. When the thermometer is immersed in a given liquid, its
resistance is observed to 5.06 Ω. Determine the temperature of liquid?

Ans.Ro = Resistance at00c = 2.56Ω

Rt = Resistance at temperature T = 1000c = 3.56Ω 100

Rt = Resistance at unknown temperature t ;

Rt = 5.06Ω

Since,

t =

t = 2500c

32. Calculate Cp for air, given that Cv =0.162 cal g-1 k-1 and density air at N.T. P is

0.001293 g|cm3?

Ans.Specific heat at constant pressure = Cp= ?

13
Specific heat at constant volume = Cv = 0.162 Cal g-1 k-1

Now, Cp – Cv =

Or CP – Cv =

Cp – Cv =

= 6.8×10-4+2

Cp – Cv = 0.068

Cp = 0.162+0.068

Cp = 0.23 Cal g-1 k-1

33. Develop a relation between the co-efficient of linear expansion, co-efficient

superficial expansion and coefficient of cubical expansion of a solid?

Ans.Since, co-efficient of linear expansion = α =

∆L = change in length

L = length

∆T = change in temperature

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Similarly, co-efficient of superficial expansion = β =

∆S = change in area

S = original area

∆T = change in temperature

Co-efficient of cubical expansion, = Y =

∆V = change in volume

V = original volume

∆T = change in temperature.

Now, ∆L=αL ∆T

L + ∆L = L + αL ∆T

L + ∆L = L (1+α∆T) → (1)

Similarly V+ ∆V = V (1+Y∆T) →(2)

And S+∆S=S (1+β∆T) → (3)

Also, (V+∆V) = (L+∆L)3

V+∆V =

V+∆V = L3

Since α2, α3 are negligible, so,

V+γ V∆T= V(1+3α∆T) [as L3=V]

So, V+γV∆T = V+V3α∆T

15
γV∆T = 3α∆T

Y = 3α

Similarly, β = 2α [using L2 = S (Area)]

So,

34. Calculate the amount of heat required to convert 1.00kg of ice at – 100c into steam at

1000c at normal pressure. Specific heat of ice = 2100J|kg|k. Latent heat of fusion of ice =

3.36x105J|kg, specific heat of water = 4200J|kg|k. Latent heat of vaporization of water =

2.25 x106J|kg?

Ans.(1) Here, heat is required to raise the temperature of ice from – 100c to 00c.

So, change in temperature = ∆T = T2-T1 = 0-(-10) = 100c

So, ∆Q1=cm∆T

C = specific heat of ice

M = Mass of ice

∆T = 100c

∆Q1 = 2100×1×10=21000J

(2) Heat required to melt the ice to 00c water:-

∆Q2 = mL

L = Latent heat of fusion of ice = 3.36×105J/kg

m = Mass of ice

16
∆Q2 = 1×3.36×105J/kg

∆Q2=3.36×105J

∆Q2 = 336000J

(3) Heat required to raise the temperature of water from 00c to 1000c:-

∆T = T2-T1 = 100-0=1000c

∆Q3 = cm∆Tc = specific heat of water

= 4200×1×100

= 420,000J

(4) Heat required to convert 1000c water to steam at 1000c

∆Q4 = mL L = Latent heat of vapourisation = 2.25×106J/kg

∆Q4 = 1×2.25×106J|kg

∆Q4 = 2250000J

∴ Total Heat required = ∆Q1+∆Q2+∆Q3+∆Q4

∆Q total = 21000+336000+420000+2250000

∆Q total = 3027000J

∆Q total = 3.027x106J

35. Why is mercury used in making thermometers?

Ans. Mercury is used in making thermometers because it has wide and useful temperature
range and has a uniform rate of expansion.

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36. How would a thermometer be different if glass expanded more with increasing
temperature than mercury?

Ans. If glass expanded more with increasing temperature than mercury, the scale of the
thermometer would be upside down.

37. Show the variation of specific heat at constant pressure with temperature?

Ans.

38. Two thermometers are constructed in the same way except that one has a spherical
bulb and the other an elongated cylindrical bulb. Which one will response quickly to
temperature change?

Ans. The thermometer with cylindrical bulb will respond quickly to temperature changes
because the surface area of cylindrical bulb is greater than the of spherical bulb.

39. State Carnot’s Theorem?

Ans. According to Carnot’s Theorem, no engine working between two temperatures can be
more efficient than a Carnot’s reversible engine working between the same temperatures.

18
 CBSE Class 11 physics
Important Questions
Chapter 12
Thermodynamics

2 Marks Questions Part 1

1.A motor car tyre has a Pressure of four atmosphere at a room temperature of 270C. If
the tyre suddenly bursts, calculate the temperature of escaping gas?

Ans. Since the tyre suddenly bursts, the change taking place is adiabatic, for adiabatic
change:-

Or

Hence, T1 = 273 + 27 = 300K

P1 = Initial Pressure; P2 = final Pressure

So,

So, Putting the above values in eq4 i)

19
Taking 1.4 Power

W1=-150J→ (1)

Work done by the gas in the process B → C is : →

Adding equation i) & 2)

Net work done by the gas in the whole process is W = W1 + W2

W = 150 – 70 = - 22 OJ

20
T2 = 201.8 K

∴ T2 = 201.8 – 273 = - 71.20C

2.How does Carnot cycle operates?

Ans. A Carnot cycle operates a follows:-

1) It receives thermal energy isothermally from some hot reservoir maintained at a constant
high temperature TH.

2) It rejects thermal energy isothermally to a constant low–temperature reservoir (T2).

3) The change in temperature is reversible adiabatic process.

Such a cycle, which consist of two isothermal processes bounded by two adiabatic processes,
is called Carnot cycle.

3.Calculate the work done by the gas in going from the P-V graph of the thermodynamic
behavior of a gas from point A to point B to point C?

Ans.Work done by the gas in the process A → B is

21
W1 = - (area under curve A B)

= -

= -

P A B = 500 Pa

= 5×105 N|m2

4.Why does absolute zero not correspond to zero energy?

Ans.The total energy of a gas is the sum of kinetic and potential energy of its molecules.
Since the kinetic energy is a function of the temperature of the gas. Hence at absolute zero,
the kinetic energy of the molecules ceases but potential energy is not zero. So, absolute zero
temperature is not the temperature of zero energy.

5.State the Second law of thermodynamics and write 2 applications of it?

Ans.According to second law of thermodynamics, when a cold body and a hot body are
brought into contact with each other, heat always from hot Body to the cold body. Also, that
no heat engine that works in cycle completely converts heat into work.

22
Second law of thermodynamics is used in working of heat engine and of refrigerator.

6.At 00C and normal atmospheric pressure, the volume of 1g of water increases from

1cm3 to 1.091 cm3 on free zing. What will be the change in its internal energy? Normal

atmospheric pressure is 1.013x105 N|m2 and the latent heat of melting of ice is 80 cal/g?

Ans.Since, heat is given out by 1 g of water in freezing is

m = Mass of water = 1 g

Q = - (mLf) Lf = Latent heat of melting of ice = 80 cal|g

During freezing, the water expands against atmospheric pressure. Hence, external work
done (W) by water is :- W = P × ∆ V

P = 1.013×105 N|m2; ∆ V = 1.091 – 1 = 0.091 cm3 = o.o91 × 10-6 m3

∆ V = V2 – V1; V2 = final volume = 1.91 cm3

V1 = Initial volume = 1 cm3

So, W =

W = 0.0092 J

Since, 1 cal = 4.2J so,

W =

Since the work has been done by ice, it will be taken positive.

Acc. to first law of thermodynamics,

Q = ∆∪ + W ∆∪ = change in internal energy

23
So, ∆∪ = Q – W

∆∪ = - 80.0022 cal

Negative sign indicates that internal energy of water decreases on freezing.

7.Two different adiabatic paths for the same gas intersect two thermals at T1 and T2 as

shown in P-V diagram. How does Compare with ?

Ans.Now, A B and C D are isothermals at temperature T1 and T2 respectively and BC and AD

are adiabatic.

Since points A and D lie on the same adiabatic.

T1 VA Y-1 = T2 VDY-1

Also, points B and C lie on the same adiabatic,

or T1VB Y-1 = T2VCY-1

From equation 1) & 2)

24
8.The internal energy of a compressed gas is less than that of the rarified gas at the
same temperature. Why?

Ans.The internal energy of a compressed gas is less than that of rarified gas at the same
temperature because in compressed gas, the mutual attraction between the molecules
increases as the molecules comes close. Therefore, potential energy is added to internal
energy and since potential energy is negative, total internal energy decreases.

9.Consider the cyclic process A B C A on a sample 2 mol of an ideal gas as shown. The
temperature of the gas at A and B are300 K and 500K respected. Total of 1200 J of heat is
with drawn from the sample. Find the work done by the gas in part BC?

25
Ans.The change in internal energy during the cyclic process is zero. Therefore, heat supplied
to the gas is equal to work done by it,

∴ WAB + WBC + WCA = - 1200J →(1)

(- ve because the cyclic process is traced anticlockwise the net work done by the system is
negative)

The work done during the process AB is

WAB = PA (VB-VA) = nR(TB-TA)

WAB = 2×8.3(500-300) = 3320J →2)

R = Universal gas constant

N = No. of volume

Since in this process, the volume increases, the work done by the gas is positive.

Now, WCA = O ( volume of gas remains constant)

∴ 3320 + WBC + O = - 1200 (Using equation 1) & 2)

WBC = - 1200 – 3320

WBC = - 4520J

10.A refrigerator placed in a room at 300 K has inside temperature 264K. How many
calories of heat shall be delivered to the room for each 1 K cal of energy consumed by

26
the refrigerator, ideally?

Ans.High temperature, TH = 300K

Low temperature, Th = 264K

Energy = 1K cal.

Co - efficient of performance, is given by:-

Now, COP =

QL = heat rejected

QL = COP × W

QL =

The mechanical work done by the compressor of the refrigerator is:-

W = QH – QL

QH = W + QL

QH =

QH = 8.33 K cal

11.If the door of a refrigerator is kept open in a room, will it make the room warm or

27
cool?

Ans.Since a refrigerator is a heat engine that operates in the reverse direction i.e. it extracts
heat from a cold body and transforms it to hot body. Since it exhaust more heat into room
than it extracts from it. Therefore, the net effect is an increase in temperature of the room.

12.The following figure shows a process A B C A per formed on an ideal gas, find the net
heat given to the system during the process?

Ans .Since the process is cyclic, the change in internal energy is zero. Therefore, the heat
given to the system is equal to work done by it. The net work done by the gas in the process
ABCA is:-

W = WAB + WBC + WCA

Now WAB = O

During the path BC, temperature remains constant. So it is an isothermal process. So, WBC =

nRT2 Loge

During the CA, Vα T so that is constant.

∴ Work done by the gas during the part CA is :-

WCA = P (V1 – V2)

= nR (T1 – T2)

= - nR (T2 – T1) → Using equation 1)

W= O + nR T2 Loge - nR (T2 – T1)

28
13.A certain gas at atmospheric pressure is compressed adiabatically so that its volume
becomes half of its original volume. Calculate the resulting pressure?

Ans.Let the original volume, V1=V

∴ final volume V2 = (∴volume become half)

Initial pressure P1 = o.76m of Hg column

Final pressure P2 after compression =?

As the change is adiabatic, so

Y = = 1.4 for air

P2 = P1

= 0.76 ×

P2 = 0.76 × (2)1.4

29
P2 = 2m of Hg column

P2 = h sg

P2 = 2.672 x 105 N|m2

P2 = 2× (13.6x103)× 9.8

h = height of Hg column

s = Density of air

g = Acceleration due to gravity

14.Why is conversion of heat into work not possible without a sink at lower
temperature?

Ans. For converting heat energy in to work continuously a part of heat energy absorbed
from the source has to be rejected. The heat energy can be rejected only to a body at lower
temperature which is sink, so we require a sink to convert heat into work

15.Write the sign conventions for the heat and work done during a thermodynamic
process?

Ans. 1) When heat is supplied to a system d Q is taken positive but when heat is supplied by a
system, d Q is taken negative.

2) When a gas expands, d w is taken as positive but when a gas compresses, work done is
taken as negative.

16.Does the working of an electric refrigerator defy second law of thermodynamics?

Ans. No, it is not against the second law; this is because external work is done by the
compressor or for this transfer of heat.

30
17.A Carnot engine absorb 6×105 cal at 2270c calculate work done per cycle by the

engine if it sink is at 1270c?

Ans. Here, heat abs or bed = Q1 = 6 × 105 cal.

Initial temperature = T1 = 2270c = 227+273 = 500K

Final temperature = T2 = 1270c = 127 + 273 = 400K

As, for Carnot engine;

Q2 =

Q2 = 4.8 × 105 cal

Q2 = Final heat emitted

As w = Q1 – Q2 = 6 × 105 – 4.8 × 105

= 1.2 × 105 cal

Work = w = 1.2 ×105 × 4.2 J

Dore = 5.04 × 105 J

18.How does second law of thermodynamics explain expansion of gas?

Ans. Since from second law,.

31
d S ≥ O d S = change in entropy

During the expansion of gas, the thermodynamic probability of gas is larger and hence its
entropy is also very large. Since form second law, entropy cannot decrease ∴ following the
second law, gas molecules move from one partition to another.

19.Why is it hotter at the same distance over the top of the fire than in front of it?

Ans. At a point in front of fire, heat is received due to the process of radiation only, while at a
point above the fire, heat reaches both due to radiation and convection. Hence the result.

20. A metal rod of length 20cm and diameter 2cm is covered with a non-conducting

substance. One of it ends is maintained at 1000c while the other is at 00c. It is found that
25g of ice melts in 5 min calculate coefficient of thermal conductivity of metal?

Ans.Length of rod = ∆x = 20cm = 2 × 10-3m

Diameter = 2cm

R = 10-2m

Area of cross-section = π r2

= π (10-2)2

= 10-4 π sq. m

∆ T = T2 – T1 = 100 – 0 = 1000c

Mass of ice melted = m = 25g

Latent heat office = 80 cal/g

Heat conducted, ∆ Q = mL

= 25 x 80

32
= 2000 cal

= 2000 × 4.2J

∆ t = 5 min = 300s

So,

K = =

K = 1.78J |s|m|0c

K = coefficient of thermal conductivity

21.Calculate the temperature in Kelvin at which a perfectly black body radiates at the

rate of 5.67 w/cm2?

Ans. E = 5.67w|cm2 ; E = energy radiated

= 5.67 x 107 erg | s | cm2

= Stefan’s constant = 5.67 × 10-5 ergs |s | cm2| K4, from Stefan’s law

E = σ T4

T =

33
 T =

22.How do you explain the emission of long - wavelength by the object at low
temperature?

Ans.Since by Wein’s law: →

i.e temperature is inversely proportional to the wavelength so, if temperature is less, then
wavelength will be long. If temperature is high, then wavelength will be short.

23.If the radiation from the moon gives maxima at = 4700 A0 and = 14x10-6m. What
conclusion can be drawn from the above information?

Ans. Acc. to wien’s displacement law,

Now, according to the question, m = 4700 A0 = 4700×10-10m

T1 = Temperature of moon,

T1 =

b = 2.9 ×10-3 mK

Let the temperature corresponding to

34
So, T2 =

T2 =

24.Differentiate between conduction, convection and radiation?

Ans.

Properties Conduction Convection Radiation

Material
1. Essential Essential Not Essential
Medium
Do not leave their mean More bodily from one Medium does not
2. Molecules
position place to another. play any part
Transfer of Can be in any direction In all direction in
3. Only vertically upward
heat along any part straight lines
Speed of Fastest with the
4. Slow Rapid
transfer of heat speed of light.

25.The tile floor feels colder than the wooden floor even though both floor materials
are at same temperature. Why?

Ans. This happens because the tile is better heat conductor than wood. The heat conducted
from our foot to the wood is not conducted away rapidly. So, the wood quickly heats up on its
surface to the temperature of our foot. But the tile conducts the heat away rapidly and thus
can take more heat from our foot, so its surface temperature drops.

35
 CBSE Class 11 physics
Important Questions
Chapter 12
Thermodynamics

2 Marks Questions Part 2

26.A room has a 4m x 4m x10cm concrete roof (K1 = 1.26w|m|0C). At some instant, the

temperature outside is 460c and radius 320c.

1) Calculate amount of heat flowing per second into the room through the roof.

2) If bricks (K2 – 0.56w |m|0c) of thickness 7.5cm are laid down on roof, calculate the

new rate of heat flow under the same temperature conditions?

Ans. 1) Area of roof = 4 × 4 = 16 m2

Thickness of roof, x1 = 10 cm = 0.1m,

Thermal resistance of the roof is given by :-

∴ Rate of heat flow through the roof is:-

2) The thermal resistance of the brick is given by:-

36
The equivalent thermal resistance of the roof now is :→

∴ Rate of heat through the roof is :→

27.A bar o copper of length 75cm and a bar of length 125cm are joined end to end. Both
are of circular cross – section with diameters 2cm. The free ends of copper and steel are

maintained at 1000c and 00c respectively. The surfaces of the bars are thermally
insulated. What is the temperature of copper – steel junction? Thermal conductivity of

copper = 9.2x10-2k cal |m|0c|s and that of steel is 1.1x10-2 k cal|m|0c|s?

Ans. l1 = lengths of copper bars AB

l2 = length of steel bars BC.

Θ1 = temperature of free ends A

Θ2 = temperature of free ends C.

Θ = temperature of copper – steel.

In steady state, the heat flowing per second through two bars is the same i.e

H1 = H2

37
∴ Temperature of junction = θ :→

28.Two rods A and B are of equal length. Each rod has its ends at temperatures T1 and

T2. What is the condition that will ensure equal rates of flow of heat through the rods A

and B?

Ans.Since θ =

Θ = heat flow

K = co – efficient of thermal conductivity

A = Cross – Sectional Area

Θ1 = Temperature of hot body

Θ2 = Temperature of cold body

X = distance between hot and cold faces

t = time

For rod A :

38
For equal rates of flow, KA AA = KB AB

29.A layer of ice 10cm thick is formed on a pond. The temperature of air is – 100C.
Calculate how long it will take for the thickness of ice to increase by 1mm. Density of

ice = 1g|cm3; Thermal conductivity of ice = 0.005Cal|s|cm|0C; Latent heat of ice =

80Cal|g?

Ans. Let t = time required to increase the thickness of ice by 1mm (=0.1cm)

Mass of ice required to be formed is :-

m = Volume x Density

Let A = Area of upper surface

Volume = Area x Thickness

= A × 0.1

m = (A × 0.1) × 1

m = 0.1 A gram →1)

Now, heat must flow from lower surface to the upper surface of ice and finally into
atmosphere.

Θ = heat that flows out of pond into atmosphere.

= Latent heat of ice

m = Mass of ice

k = co – efficient of thermal conductivity

A = Cross – sectional Area

t = time

x = Distance between hot and cold surface

39
θ1 = temperature of hot surface

θ2 = temperature of cold surface

∴ θ = m L ;

Θ = 0.1×A×80 (Using equation 1)

Θ = 8 A Cal → 2)

But

Now, x = 10cm,

K = 0.005 cal|cm|∆|0C

Θ1 – θ2 = 0 – (-10) = 100C

30.Two conducting slabs of thermal conductivities K1 and K2 are joined as shown in the

figure. The temperature of the ends of slab are θ1 and θ2 (θ1 > θ2). Find the final

temperature of (θm)?

Ans. Let θ1 = temperature of hot slab

Θ2 = temperature of cold slab

40
K1 = Co – efficient of thermal conductivity of hot slab

K2 = Co – efficient of thermal conductivity of cold slab

Θm = final temperature

d = Distance b/w hot and cold surface

A = Area of cross – section

t = time

Now, since is steady state, the rate of heat transfer in both the slabs is same i. e

Θ1 – θm = because first heat flows from θ1 to the junction

Θ2 – θm = then heat flows from junction to second surface

So,

41
So,

31.The ends of the two rods of different materials with their thermal conductivities,
radii of cross – section and length in the ratio 1:2 are maintained at the same
temperature difference. If the rate of flow of heat through the larger rod is 4 cal |s,
what is the rate of flow through the shorter rod?

Ans.K1 = thermal conductivity of first region

K2 = thermal conductivity of second region

r1 = radius of cross section of first region

r2 = radius of cross – section of second region

l1 – length of first region

l2 = length of second region

Θ1 = heat flow of first region

42
Θ2 = heat flow of second region

Now,

Also,

and

Now, we know,

So, Let

Now, Divide eq4 1) & 2)

43
Since

32.What are thermal radiation? Write its properties of thermal radiation?

Ans.The radiant energy emitted be a body solely on account of its temperature is called
thermal radiation.

Properties of thermal Radiation:-

1) They travel through vacuum

2) They obey laws of refraction

3) They can be refracted

4) They travel with the speed of light

5) They do not heat the medium through which they passes.

44
6) They exhibit phenomena of interference, diffraction and polarization.

33.An indirectly heated filament is radiating maximum energy of wavelength 2.16x 10-
7m. Find the net amount of heat energy lost per second per unit area, the temperature

of surrounding air is 130C. Given b = 2.88x10-3 mk, σ = 5.77x10-8 J|s|m2|k4?

Ans. By Wien’s Law:-

The product of wavelength at which maximum energy is emitted and the absolute

temperature (T) of the black body is always constant.

i.e T = constant = b →(1)

b = Wien’s constant = 2.9×10-3 mK

Now,

T = 13333.3K

Now, Temperature of surrounding, To = 13 + 273 = 286K.

Net amount of heat energy lost per second per unit area:-

45
E = 1.824 × 108 J/s/m2

34. Animals in the forest find shelter from cold in holes in the snow. Why?

Ans. Animals in the forest find shelter from cold in holes in the snow because snow has
trapped air (as in ice there is no air) so, it acts as a heat insulator. Therefore, the snow
prevents the transmission of heat from the body of the animal to the outside.

35.A brass boiler has a base area of 0.15m2 and thickness 1.0cm. It boils water at the
rate of 6kg| min when placed on a gas stove, Estimate the temperature of the part of

flame in contact with the boiler. Thermal conductivity of brass = 109J|s|m|0C, heat of
vaporization of water = 2256J|g?

Ans. Rate of boiling of water is = 6.0Kg / min

= 100 g/s

∴ Rate at which heat is supplied by the flame to water is :-

m = Rate of boiling of water

L = heat of vaporization of water

θ = m L

Θ = 225 600J/s

46
Now, T2 = Temperature of cold junction = 1000C

T1 = Temperature of hot junction

T2 = Temperature of cold junction

t = time

x = Distance b/w hot and cold junction

Now, x = 1.0 cm = 1.0 X 10-2m

K = 109 J|s|m|0C

A = 0.15 m2

t = 1 s

47
T1 = 237.980C

36. How do you explain heating of rooms based on principle of convection?

Ans. Convection is the process by which heat is transmitted from one point to another due to
the movement of heated particles of the substance.

During heating of the room by a heater, the air molecules in immediate contact with heater
are heated up, they acquire sufficient energy and rise upward. The cool air particles near to
the roof are dense and more down and in turn it is heated and the moves upwards. Hence by
the movement of heated air particles, the entire room heats up.

37. If for a gas, = 0.67 then which gas is this:- monatomic, diatomic and tri atomic?

Ans.Since for an ideal gas, CP – CV = R → 1)

CP = Specific heat at constant pressure

CV = Specific heat at constant volume

R = Universal Gas Constant

And given

or

48
And we know, that = 1.67 is for monatomic gas ; So the gas is monatomic in question.

38.A 50g lead bullet, specific heat 0.02 cal |g | 0C is initially at 300C. It is fixed vertically
upward with a speed of 840m |s and on returning to the starting level strikes a cake of

ice at 00C. How much ice is melted? Assume that all energy is spent in melting ice only?

Ans.Speed of bullet hitting the ice = V = 840 m | s

Heat produced due to kinetic energy of the bullet:- =

Now, m = Mass of bullet =

Hence

Now, heat given by bullet due to temperature difference = m c

49
m = Mass of bullet

c = Specific heat of bullet

Q2 = Initial Temperature

Q1 = Final Temperature

Total heat given by bullet = 4200 + 30 = 4230 Cal.

Now, entire heat of bullet is used in melting the ice only, Let M = Mass of Ice that melted

L = Latent heat of ice

Hence

39.A gas mixture consists of 2 moles of oxygen and 4 moles of argon at temperature T. If
we neglect all vibration modes, find the total energy of the system?

Ans.Let NA = Avogadro’s Number

No. of degrees of freedom of O2 molecule (diatomic) = 5

No. of degrees of freedom of 2 moles of oxygen = 2 NA × 5 = 10 NA

No. of degrees of freedom of 4 moles of argon (monatomic) = 4 NA × 3

= 12 NA ( 3 = degrees of freedom)

Total degrees of freedom of mixture = 10 NA + 12 NA = 22 NA →1)

50
Energy associated with each degree of freedom | molecule =

Total energy of mixture = 22 NA × ( Using equation1)

40. Show that CP - CV = R Where [CP = specific heat at constant pressure ; CV = specific

heat at constant volume and R = Universal Gas constant] for an ideal gas?

Ans.Now, Let first heat the gas at constant volume and temperature increases by So,

Since volume remains the same, hence no work is heating the gas then according to law of
conservation of energy, the entire heat supplied goes into raising the internal energy and
hence the temperature of the gas.

Now,

∴ ∆U = increase in the internal energy of the gas Let heat the gas at constant pressure and if
the temperature of the gas increases by ∆T but here external work is done to expand the gas
hence

But

Now, form ideal gas equation :→

51
Subtracting equation 3) from equation 4)

Put

or

41. How do you justify that when a body is being heated at melting point, the
temperature remains Constant?

Ans.When a body is being heated below the malting point, the heat supplied increases the
potential as well as the kinetic energy of the molecules. Due to the increase in the kinetic
energy of the mole clues, the temperature increases. But at melting point, heat goes, to
increase only the potential energy of molecules and hence the temperature remains the
same.

42. Draw and explain a P – T diagram for water showing different phases?

Ans.

52
1) The l - V curve represent those points where the liquid and vapour phases are in
equilibrium.

2) The s – l curve represent the points where the solid and liquid phases exist in equilibrium.

3) The s – v is the sublimation curve where a solid changes into vapour phase without
passing through the liquid stage

4) Triple point → Intersection of three curves is the triple point. It represents a unique
temperature and pressure and it is only at this point that the three phases can exist together
in equilibrium.

43. From what height should a piece of ice fall so that it completely melts? Only one –

quarter of heat produced is absorbed by the ice. Given latent heat of ice is 3.4 × 105 J |

Kg and acceleration due to gravity, g = 10m | s2?

Ans.Let m = Mass of piece of ice

h = height from which it falls.

∴ Loss of Potential energy = m g h

The Potential energy of ice is converted into heat.

53
Since the ice absorbs only one – quarter of this,

∴ Heat absorbed by ice,

If L Joules | Kg is the latent heat of ice, them

Equating 1) & 2) for Q

44. A gas can have any value of specific heat depending upon how heating is carried out.
Explain?

Ans.If m = Mass of gas

Q = heat supplied

= Change in temperature

then specific heat of gas,

1) Let gas is compressed suddenly, So no heat is supplied from outside (i.e. Q = 0) but the
temperature of the gas in the gas increases due to compression,

54
2) Let the gas is heated in a way that the temperature is constant (∆T = O) then,

Hence, depending upon conditions of heating. The value of C will be different.

45. A 0.20 Kg aluminum block at 800C is dropped in a copper calorimeter of mass 0.05 Kg

containing 200 cm3 of ethyl alcohol at 200C. What is the final temperature of the

mixture? Given Density of ethyl alcohol = 0.81 g | cm3 ; specific heat of ethyl alcohol =

0.6 cal | g | 0C ; specific heat of copper = 0.094 cal | g | 0C, specific heat of Al = 0.22 cal | g

| 0C?

Ans.Let θ0C = final temperature of the mixture.

Mass of ethyl alcohol = volume ×Density

= 200 × 0.81

= 162 g

Heat lost by Aluminum block = Mass X specific heat X fall in temperature

Heat gained by the ethyl alcohol and calorimeter = (Mass of ethyl alcohol × specific heat ×
change in Temperature) + Mass of copper calorimeter × specific heat X change in

55
Temperature

But, Heat gained = Heat Lost

So, from equation 1) & 2)

46. Why is there a difference in the specific heat curve as given by Delong’s petit law
and the experimental result at low temperatures?

Ans.Now, from Dulong & Petit law, the specific heat is independent of temperature but it is
experimentally seen that specific heat at lower temperatures is directly proportional to the

56
cube of temperatures. The above dependence is because of the fact that the particles in the
crystal oscillate as if they are coupled Quantum Harmonic Oscillator.

47. Specific heat of Argon at constant Pressure is o.125 cal | g | K and at constant
volume is 0.075 cal | g | K. Calculate the density of argon at N.T.P. Given that J = 4.2J |
cal?

Ans.Specific heat at constant and Pressure, CP = 0.125 cal | g | K

CP = 0.125 × 4.2 × 1000 J | Kg | K

CP = 525 J | Kg | K →1)

Specific heat at constant volume, CV = 0.075 cal | g | K

The gas constant, r for I kg of gas is given by:-

Normal pressure = P = h P g = 0.76 ×13600 × 9.8 = 101292.8N | m2

Normal Temperature = T = 273K.

Suppose V = Volume of argon in m3 at N. T. P.

57
∴ Density of Argon,

48. How is heat loss reduced in Calorimeter?

Ans.1) Heat loss due to radiation is reduced by polishing inner and outer surfaces of the
Calorimeter.

2) Heat loss due to conduction is reduced by filling the space between the calorimeter and
insulating jacket with poor conductor of heat.

3) Heat loss due to convection is done by using a insulating lid.

49. What is critical temperature? How will you differentiate between a gas and a
vapour depending on critical temperature?

Ans.The temperature above which a gas connot be liquefied, no matter how great the
pressure is called critical temperature. If the substance lies above the critical temperature
then it falls in the gaseous region. If the substance lies below the critical temperature than it
falls in the vapour stage.

50. If for hydrogen CP – CV = a and for oxygen CP – CV = b where CP & CV refer to

specific heat at constant pressure and volume then what is the relation between a and
b?

Ans.For H2, CP – CV = a

CP = Specific heat at constant pressure

CV = Specific heat at constant Volume

For O2 = CP – CV = b

And r =

58
M = Molecular weight

I = Mechanic cal equivalent of heat

Now, we know that, CP – CV = r

So, for

from equation 1)

2a =

from equation 2)

32b =

Equating above equations for

2a = 32 b

a = 16 b

51. A ball is dropped on a floor from a height of 2cm. After the collision, it rises up to a
height of 1.5m. Assuming that 40% of mechanical energy lost goes to thermal energy
into the ball. Calculate the rise in temperature of the ball in the collision. Specific heat

59
capacity of the ball is 800J/k. Take g = 10m/s2

Ans. Initial height = h1=2m

Final height = h2=1.5m

Since potential energy = mechanical energy for a body at rest as K.E =0

Mechanical energy lost =

= 5 J

Now (mechanical energy lost) × 40% = heat gained by ball

∆T = 2.5×10-3 0C

60
 CBSE Class 11 physics
Important Questions
Chapter 12
Thermodynamics

2 Marks Questions Part 3

52.A thermometer has wrong calibration. It reads the melting point of ice as – 100C. It

reads 600C in place of 500C. What is the temperature of boiling point of water on the
scale?

Ans.Lower fixed point on the wrong scale = -100C.

Let ‘n’ = no. divisions between upper and lower fixed points on this scale. If Q = reading on

this scale, then

Now, C = Incorrect Reading = 600C

Q = Correct Reading = 500C

So,

n = 140

Now,

On, the Celsius scale, Boiling point of water is 1000C

61
So,

Q = 1300C

53. Write the advantages and disadvantages of platinum resistance thermometer?

Ans.Advantages of Platinum Resistance thermometer:-

1) High accuracy of measurement

2) Measurements of temperature can be made over a wide range of temperature i.e. from –

2600C to 12000C.

→ Disadvantages of Platinum Resistance thermometer:-

1) High Cost

2) Requires additional equipment such as bridge circuit, Power supply etc.

54.If the volume of block of metal changes by 0.12% when it is heated through 200C.
What is the co-efficient of linear expansion of the metal?

Ans.The co-efficient of cubical expansion y of the metal is given by:-

Here,

62
∴ Co-efficient of linear expansion of the metal is :-

55. The density of a solid at00C and 5000C is in the ratio 1.027 : 1. Find the co-efficient of
linear expansion of the solid?

Ans .Density at 00C = SO

Density at 5000C = S500

Now, SO = S500

Where, Y = Co-efficient of volume expansion

∆T = Change in temperature

∆T = Change in temperature

∆T = Final Temperature – Initial temperature

∆T = 500 - 00C

∆T = 5000C

Or

63
Now, Co-efficient of linear expansion (α) is related to co-efficient of volume expansion (Y) as
:-

56. If one Mole of a monatomic gas is mixed with 3 moles of a diatomic gas. What is the
molecular specific heat of the mixture at constant volume?

Ans.For, a monatomic gas, Specific heat at consent volume = CV1 = ; R = Universal Gas

Constant

No. of moles of monatomic gas = n1 = 1 mole

No. of moles of diatomic gas = n2 = 3 moles.

For, diatomic gas, specific heat at constant volume

Applying, conservation of energy.

64
Let CV = Specific heat of the mixture;

R = Universal Gas constant

57. Calculate the difference between two principal specific heats of 1g of helium gas at
N. T. P. Given Molecular weight of Helium = 4 and J = 4.186 J/cal and Universal Gas
constant, R = 8.314J / mole / K?

Ans. Molecular weight of Helium = M = 4

Universal Gas Constant, R = 8.31J | mole | K

CP = specific heat at constant Pressure

CV = specific heat at constant Volume

65
Now, for 1 mole of gas.

Where R = Universal Gas Constant = 8.31J | mole | K

J = 4.186 J | cal

M = Molecular weight of Helium = 4

58. Why does heat flow from a body at higher temperature to a body at lower
temperature?

Ans.When a body at higher temperature is in contact with a body at lower temperature,

molecule with more kinetic energy that are in contact with less energetic molecules give up
some of their kinetic energy to the less energetic ones.

59. A one liter flask contains some mercury. IT is found that at different temperatures,
then volume of air inside the flask remains the same. What is the volume of mercury in

the flask? Given the co-efficient of linear expansion of glass = 9 × 10-6 / 0C and co-

efficient of volume expansion of mercury = 1.8 × 10-4 /

0C

Ans.It is given that volume of air in the flask remains the same at different temperature. This
is possible only when the expansion of glass is exactly equal to the expansion of mercury,

Co-efficient of cubical expansion of glass is :-

66
Co-efficient of cubical expansion of mercury is :→

Volume of flask, V = 1 liter = 1000 cm3.

Let Vm Cm3 be the volume of mercury in the flask.

Expansion of flask = Expansion of Mercury

∴ Volume of Mercury,

60. A refrigerator is to maintain eatables kept inside at 9°C. If room temperature is 36°
C, calculate the coefficient of performance.

Ans. Temperature inside the refrigerator, = 9°C = 282 K

Room temperature, = 36°C = 309 K

Coefficient of performance =

= 10.44

Therefore, the coefficient of performance of the given refrigerator is 10.44.

67
61. A steam engine delivers of work per minute and services of
heat per minute from its boiler. What is the efficiency of the engine? How much heat is
wasted per minute?

Ans. Work done by the steam engine per minute, W =

Heat supplied from the boiler, H =

Efficiency of the engine =

Hence, the percentage efficiency of the engine is 15 %.

Amount of heat wasted =

= =

Therefore, the amount of heat wasted per minute is .

62. A thermodynamic system is taken from an original state to an intermediate state by

the linear process shown in Fig. (12.13)

Its volume is then reduced to the original value from E to F by an isobaric process.
Calculate the total work done by the gas from D to E to F

68
Ans.Total work done by the gas from D to E to F = Area of ΔDEF

Area of ΔDEF =

Where,

DF = Change in pressure

= 300 N/

FE = Change in volume

= = 3.0 m3

Area of ΔDEF = = 450 J

Therefore, the total work done by the gas from D to E to F is 450 J.

69
 CBSE Class 11 physics
Important Questions
Chapter 12
Thermodynamics

3 Marks Questions

1.Calculate the work done during the isothermal Process?

Ans.Let an ideal gas is allowed to expand very slowly at constant temperature. Let the
expands from state A (P1, V1) to state B (P2, V2)

The work by the gas in expanding from state A to B is

For ideal gas, PV = N R T

70
or P =

Use 2) in i)

W =

Since n, R and T are constant so,

W =

W isothermal = nRT Loge V

W isothermal =

W isothermal – nRT Loge

W isothermal = 2.303 nRT Log 10

If M = Molecular Mass of gas then for 1 gram of ideal gas,

W isothermal = 2.303

W isothermal 2.303 r T Log 10

r = Gas constant for 1 gm of an ideal gas,

71
 Since P1 V1 = P2 V2

So W isothermal = 2.303 r T log 10

2.Five moles of an ideal gas are taken in a Carnot engine working between 1000C and

300C. The useful work done in 1 cycle is 420J. Calculate the ratio of the volume of the gas
at the end and beginning of the isothermal expansion?

Ans.High temperature, TH = 1000C = 100+ 273 = 373K

Low temperature, TL = 300C, = 30 +273 = 303K

Amount of the gas, n = 5 moles

Useful work done per cycle, W = QH - QL

Now, W = 420 J

So, QH – QL = 420J → 1)

Now,

Or QH =

72
QL = 1818J

or, QH-QL = 420J

QH – 1818 = 420J

QH = 420 + 1818 = 2238J

When the gas is carried through Carnot cycle, the heat absorbed QH during isothermal

expansion is equal to the work done by gas.

V1 – Initial Volume

V2 = Final Volume,

In isothermal expansion,

QH = 2.303 nRTH Log 10

22 38 = 2.303 × 5 × 8.4 × 373 Log 10

Log 10

Log 10

73
3.Deduce the work done in the following complete cycle?

Ans.1) Work done during the process from A to B = WAB

WAB = area ABKLA (∴ because area under p-v curve gives work done)

= area of ∆ ABC + area of rectangle

BC = KL = 4-1 = 3l = 3x10-3m3

AC = 4-2 = 2N|m2

LC = 2-0 = 2N|m2

WAB =

= 3×10-3+6×10-3

WAB = 9×10-3J

74
Since gas expands during this process, hence WAB = 9×10-3J

2) Work done during the process from B to C(compression) is WBC = -area BCLK

( - ve because gas compresses during BC)

= - KL × LC

WBC = -3×10-3×2

= - 6×10-3J

3) Work done during the process from C to A :-

As there is no change in volume of gas in this process, WCA = O

So, net work done during the complete cycle = WAB + WBC +WCA

= 9×10-3-6×10-3+0

Net work done = 3×10-3J

4.One kilogram molecule of a gas at 400k expands isothermally until its volume is
doubled. Find the amount of work done and heat produced?

Ans.Initial volume, V1= V

Final volume, V2= 2V

Initial temperature T = 400k

Find temperature = 400k (∴ process is isothermal)

Gas constant, R = 8. 3kJ |mole |k=8.3x10-3J|mole|k

Work done during is thermal process=w=2.3026RT Log 10

75
W = 2.3026×8.3×10-3×400×log 10

W = 2.3026×8.3×10-3×400×Log 10 (2)

W = 2.3016J

If H is the amount of heat produced than,

5.Calculate difference in efficiency of a Carnot energy working between:-

1) 400K and 350K

2) 350K and 300K

Ans.Efficiency of heat engine = n = 1 -

T2 = final temperature

T1 = Initial temperature

1) 400K and 350K,

T2 = 350, T1 = 400

n = 1 -

76
 n1 =

2) 350K and 300K

T2 = 300K; T1 = 350K

n1 = 1 -

= 1 -

n1 =

Change in efficiency = n2 – n1 = 14.3% - 12.5% = 1.8%

6.How do you derive Newton’s law of cooling from Stefan’s law?

Ans.Acc. to Newton’s law of cooling, the rate of loss of heat of a liquid is directly proportional
to the difference in temperature of the liquid and the surrounding, provided the difference
in temperature is very small.

Let a body be maintained at T K. Let To be the temperature of the surroundings. Let T ≫ To.

There will be loss of heat be the body

Acc. to Stefan’s law, amount of heat energy lost per second per unit area of the body is

E = ϵ σ

77
σ = Stefan’s constant

ε = Emissivity of the body and surroundings

E =

Incase of Newton’s cooling, T ≈ To

E = ε σ

E = ε σ

Hence, → Hence the Newton’s law of cooling

E α

7.Define the terms reflectance, absorptance and transmittance. How are they related?

Ans.1) Reflectance – Ratio of amount of thermal radiations reflected by the body in a given
time to total amount of thermal radiations incident on body It is represented by r, 2)
Absorptance – is the ratio of the amount of thermal to the total amount of thermal radiations
incident on it. It is represented by a

3) Transmittance – It is the ratio of the amount of thermal radiations transmitted by body in

a given time to the total amount of thermal radiations incident on the body in a given time. It
is represented by t.

Let Q = Amount of the radiations incident by the body in a given time

Q1 = Amount of thermal radiations reflected by the body in a given time.

78
Q2 = Amount of thermal radiations absorbed by the body in a given time.

Q3 = Amount of thermal radiations transmitted by the body in a given time,

∴ By definition,

New, r + a + t =

R + a + t =

R + a + t = 1

If t = 0

A = 1 – r

that is good reflectors are bad absorbers

8. If half mole of helium is contained in a container at S. T. P. How much heat energy is

needed to double the pressure of the gas, keeping the volume of the gas constant? Given
specific heat of gas = 3J | g |K.

Ans.Number of moles of Helium gas =

79
Specific heat of Helium gas =

Molecular weight = M = 4

Temperature, T1 = 273 K.

∴ Molar specific heat at constant volume = CV = MCV

CV = 4 × 3

CV = 12 J | mol | K

Since, Volume is constant, Pα T or = Constant

Or

P2 = Final Pressure = 2 P

P1 = Initial Pressure = P

80
Now, Heat required,

Heat required = 1638 J

9. Calculate the amount of heat necessary to raise the temperature of 2 moles of HE gas

from 200C to 500C using:-

1) Constant – Volume Process 2) Constant Pressure Process

Here for, He; CV = 1.5 R and CP = 2.49R

Ans .1) The amount of heat required for constant – volume process is :-

Here, n = 2 moles, CV = 1.5 R = 1.5 X 8.314 J | mol | 0C

T2 = final Temperature

T1 = Initial Temperature

2) The amount of heat required for constant – Pressure process is :-

Here, n = 2 moles,

81
Since the temperature rise is same in both the cases, the change in internal energy is the
same i.e. 748J. However, in constant – pressure Process excess heat is supplied which is used
in the expansion of gas.

10. An electric heater supplies heat to a system at a rate of 100W. If system performs
work at a rate of 75 Joules per second. At what rate is the internal energy increasing?

Ans.Heat is supplied to the system at a rate of 100 W.

∴Heat supplied, Q = 100 J/s

The system performs at a rate of 75 J/s.

∴Work done, W = 75 J/s

From the first law of thermodynamics, we have:

Q = U + W

Where,

U = Internal energy

∴U = Q–W

= 100 –75

= 25 J/s

= 25 W

Therefore, the internal energy of the given electric heater increases at a rate of 25 W.

82
 CBSE Class 11 physics
Important Questions
Chapter 12
Thermodynamics

4 Marks Questions

1. A geyser heats water flowing at the rate of 3.0 litres per minute from 27 °C to 77 °C. If
the geyser operates on a gas burner, what is the rate of consumption of the fuel if its
heat of combustion is J/g?

Ans.Water is flowing at a rate of 3.0 litre/min.

The geyser heats the water, raising the temperature from 27°C to 77°C.

Initial temperature, = 27°C

Final temperature, = 77°C

∴Rise in temperature, ΔT =

= 77–27= 50°C

Heat of combustion =

Specific heat of water, c = 4.2

Mass of flowing water, m = 3.0 litre/min = 3000 g/min

Total heat used, ΔQ = mc ΔT

Rate of consumption = = 15.75 g/min

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2. What amount of heat must be supplied to kg of nitrogen (at room
temperature) to raise its temperature by 45 °C at constant pressure? (Molecular mass of
.)

Ans. Mass of nitrogen,

Rise in temperature, ΔT = 45°C

Molecular mass of , M = 28

Universal gas constant, R =

Number of moles,

Molar specific heat at constant pressure for nitrogen,

The total amount of heat to be supplied is given by the relation:

= 933.38 J

Therefore, the amount of heat to be supplied is 933.38 J.

3. Explain why

(a) Two bodies at different temperatures and if brought in thermal contact do not

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necessarily settle to the mean temperature .

(b) The coolant in a chemical or a nuclear plant (i.e., the liquid used to prevent the
different parts of a plant from getting too hot) should have high specific heat.

(c) Air pressure in a car tyre increases during driving.

(d) The climate of a harbour town is more temperate than that of a town in a desert at
the same latitude.

Ans.(a) When two bodies at different temperatures and are brought in thermal

contact, heat flows from the body at the higher temperature to the body at the lower
temperature till equilibrium is achieved, i.e., the temperatures of both the bodies become
equal. The equilibrium temperature is equal to the mean temperature only

when the thermal capacities of both the bodies are equal.

(b) The coolant in a chemical or nuclear plant should have a high specific heat. This is
because higher the specific heat of the coolant, higher is its heat-absorbing capacity and vice
versa. Hence, a liquid having a high specific heat is the best coolant to be used in a nuclear or
chemical plant. This would prevent different parts of the plant from getting too hot.

(c) When a car is in motion, the air temperature inside the car increases because of the
motion of the air molecules. According to Charles' law, temperature is directly proportional
to pressure. Hence, if the temperature inside a tyre increases, then the air pressure in it will
also increase.

(d) A harbour town has a more temperate climate (i.e., without the extremes of heat or cold)
than a town located in a desert at the same latitude. This is because the relative humidity in a
harbour town is more than it is in a desert town.

4. A cylinder with a movable piston contains 3 moles of hydrogen at standard

temperature and pressure. The walls of the cylinder are made of a heat insulator, and
the piston is insulated by having a pile of sand on it. By what factor does the pressure of
the gas increase if the gas is compressed to half its original volume?

Ans.The cylinder is completely insulated from its surroundings. As a result, no heat is

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exchanged between the system (cylinder) and its surroundings. Thus, the process is
adiabatic.

Initial pressure inside the cylinder =

Final pressure inside the cylinder =

Initial volume inside the cylinder =

Final volume inside the cylinder =

Ratio of specific heats, Y = 1.4

For an adiabatic process, we have:

The final volume is compressed to half of its initial volume.

Hence, the pressure increases by a factor of 2.639.

5. In changing the state of a gas adiabatically from an equilibrium state A to another

equilibrium state B, an amount of work equal to 22.3 J is done on the system. If the gas
is taken from state A to B via a process in which the net heat absorbed by the system is
9.35 cal, how much is the net work done by the system in the latter case? (Take 1 cal =
4.19 J)

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Ans.The work done (W) on the system while the gas changes from state A to state B is 22.3 J.

This is an adiabatic process. Hence, change in heat is zero.

∴ ΔQ = 0

ΔW = –22.3 J (Since the work is done on the system)

From the first law of thermodynamics, we have:

ΔQ = ΔU + ΔW

Where,

ΔU = Change in the internal energy of the gas

∴ ΔU = ΔQ– ΔW = –(–22.3 J)

ΔU = + 22.3 J

When the gas goes from state A to state B via a process, the net heat absorbed by the system
is:

ΔQ = 9.35 cal = 9.35 4.19 = 39.1765 J

Heat absorbed, ΔQ = ΔU + ΔQ

∴ΔW = ΔQ – ΔU

= 39.1765 – 22.3

= 16.8765 J

Therefore, 16.88 J of work is done by the system.

6. Two cylinders A and B of equal capacity are connected to each other via a stopcock.
A contains a gas at standard temperature and pressure. B is completely evacuated. The
entire system is thermally insulated. The stopcock is suddenly opened. Answer the
following:

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(a) What is the final pressure of the gas in A and B?

(b) What is the change in internal energy of the gas?

(c) What is the change in the temperature of the gas?

(d) Do the intermediate states of the system (before settling to the final equilibrium
state) lie on its P-V-T surface?

Ans.(a) 0.5 atm

(b) Zero

(c) Zero

(d) No

Explanation:

(a) The volume available to the gas is doubled as soon as the stopcock between cylinders A
and B is opened. Since volume is inversely proportional to pressure, the pressure will
decrease to one-half of the original value. Since the initial pressure of the gas is 1 atm, the
pressure in each cylinder will be 0.5 atm.

(b) The internal energy of the gas can change only when work is done by or on the gas. Since
in this case no work is done by or on the gas, the internal energy of the gas will not change.

(c) Since no work is being done by the gas during the expansion of the gas, the temperature
of the gas will not change at all.

(d) The given process is a case of free expansion. It is rapid and cannot be controlled. The
intermediate states do not satisfy the gas equation and since they are in non-equilibrium
states, they do not lie on the P-V-T surface of the system.

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 CBSE Class 11 physics
Important Questions
Chapter 12
Thermodynamics​​

5 Marks Questions

1.Derive the equation of state for adiabatic change?

Ans.Let P = pressure, V = volume and T = Temperature of the gas in a cylinder fitted with a
perfectly

frictionless piston.

Suppose a small amount of heat d Q is given to the system. The heat is spent in two ways:-

1) In increasing the temperature of the gas by la small range d T, at constant volume

2) In expansion of gas by a small volume d v

So, d Q = CV d T + P d V

In adiabatic change, no heat is supplied from outside

So, d Q = O

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 CV d t + P d V = O →(1)

Acc. to standard gas equation

PV = RT

Diff both sides

P d V + V d P = R d R

R d T = P d V +V d P (d R=O as R is a constant)

d T =

Using this in equation i)

C v

CV P d V + CV V d P + R P d V = O

(CV + R) P d V + CV V d P = O →2)

As, CP – CV = R

or CP = R + CV

So equation 2) becomes

CP P d V + CV V d P = O

Dividing above equation by CV PV

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Integrating both sides

Loge V + Loge P = constant

Loge + Loge P = constant

Loge P = constant

= antilog (constant)

K = another constant

2.Derive an expression for the work done during isothermal expansion?

Ans.Consider one gram mole of ideal gas initially with pressure, volume and temperature as
P, V, T, Let the gas expand to a volume V2, when pressure reduces to P2 and at the same

temperature T

If A = Area of cross – section of piston

Force = Pressure × Area

F = P x A

If we assume that piston moves a displacement d x,

the work done : → d w = F d x

d w = P × A × d x

d w = P × d v

Total work done in increasing the volume from V1 to V2

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W =

Since, PV = RT (from ideal gas equation)

P =

W =

W = RT

W = R T Loge

W = R T

W = R T Loge

W = 2.3026 R T Log 10

As P1 V1 = P2 V2

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So W = 2.3026 R T Log 10

3.Briefly describe a Carnot cycle and derive an expression for the efficiency of Carnot
cycle?

Ans.The construction of a heat engine following Carnot cycle is :-

1) Source of heat :- It is maintained at higher temperature T1

2) Sink of heat – It is maintained at lower temperature T2

3) Working base :- A perfect ideal gas is the working substance.

Theory :- Carnot cycle consist of four stages:-

1) I so thermal expansion

2) Adiabatic expansion

3) I so thermal compression

4) Adiabatic compression.

4. Discuss briefly energy distribution of a black body radiation. Hence deduce wien’s
displacement law?

Ans.For a black body, the monochromatic emittance of the black body and the

wavelength of the radiation emitted.

So, at a given temperature of black body :→

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a) The energy emitted is not distributed uniformly amongst all wavelengths.

b) The energy emitted in maximum corresponding to a certain wavelength and its

falls on either side of it.

As temperature of black body is increased.

a) The total energy emitted rapidly increases for any given wavelength.

b) The wavelength corresponding to which energy emitted is maximum is shifted towards

shorter wavelength side i. e, m decreases with rise in temperature

or m T = constant

Thus is the wein’s displacement law.

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