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15.2: Adiabatic Decompression

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We are going to calculate an expression for (T/P)S. The expression will be positive, since T and P increase together. We shall consider the entropy as a function of temperature and pressure, and, with the variables

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we shall start with the cyclic relation

(ST)P(TP)S(PS)T=1.

The middle term is the one we want. Let’s find expressions for the first and third partial derivatives in terms of things that we can measure.

In a reversible process dS=dQ/T, and, in an isobaric process, dQ=CPdT. Therefore

(ST)p=CpT.

Also, we have a Maxwell relation (Equation 12.6.16). (SP)T=(VT)P. Thus Equation ??? becomes

(TP)S=TCP(VT)P.

Check the dimensions of this. Note also that CP can be total, specific or molar, provided that V is correspondingly total, specific or molar. (∂T/∂P)S is, of course, intensive.

If the gas is an ideal gas, the equation of state is PV=RT, so that

(VT)P=RP=VT.

Equation ??? therefore becomes

(TP)S=VCP.


This page titled 15.2: Adiabatic Decompression is shared under a CC BY-NC license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Jeremy Tatum.

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