Solution
Related Formula
First Law of Thermodynamics:
Δ Q = Δ U + Wby gasWork done by an ideal gas during isothermal expansion:
Wgas = nRTln((V₁)/(V₀)) = nRTln((L₁)/(L₀))Conservation of Energy (Work-Energy Theorem): Total energy delivered by the heating filament (Wfilament) must equal the total work needed to lift the piston against gravity and compress the non-linear spring.
Core Logic
Since the process is isothermal, the change in internal energy of the ideal gas is zero (Δ U = 0). Hence:
Q = WgasBy the Work-Energy Theorem for the piston:
Wgas + Wfilament = Δ Ugravity + Δ UspringLet's evaluate each term:
- Increase in gravitational potential energy:
- Increase in spring potential energy:
Step 1: Finding Total Energy Delivered
Isolating Wfilament (the net external energy delivered to the gas system):
Wfilament = Wgas + Mg(L₁ - L₀) + (k)/(4)(L₁⁴ - L₀⁴)Since Wgas = nRTln((L₁)/(L₀)):
Wfilament = nRTln((L₁)/(L₀)) + Mg(L₁ - L₀) + (k)/(4)(L₁⁴ - L₀⁴)Pattern Recognition
Notice how energy conservation instantly frames this complex thermodynamics question. The heating filament's energy simply goes into three distinct stores: the isothermal work of gas expansion, raising the mass against gravity (Mgh), and the potential energy of the spring (integrated from kx³). Keeping this total energy ledger in mind prevents tedious mathematical tangents.
Chapter Mix
Class 11 Physics: Thermodynamics: First Law Class 11 Physics: Work, Energy and Power: Variable Force Integration