Final answer:
The change in energy of the system is a) 311 kJ.
Step-by-step explanation:
The change in energy of the system can be calculated using the First Law of Thermodynamics, which states that the change in energy of a system is equal to the heat absorbed by the system minus the work done by the system:
Change in Energy = Heat Absorbed - Work Done
Given that the gas absorbs 655 kJ of heat and does 344 kJ of work on the surroundings, the change in energy of the system can be calculated as:
Change in Energy = 655 kJ - 344 kJ
Change in Energy = 311 kJ
Therefore, the change in energy of the system is 311 kJ.