Question

The first law of thermodynamics and the conservation of energy, as discussed in Conservation of Energy, are clearly related. How do they differ in the types of energy considered?

a) First law considers only mechanical energy; Conservation of energy considers all forms.

b) First law considers only thermal energy; Conservation of energy considers only potential energy.

c) First law considers all forms of energy; Conservation of energy considers only kinetic energy.

d) First law and Conservation of energy are identical in the types of energy considered.

Answer 1

The first law of thermodynamics and conservation of energy are identical in the kinds of energy they consider; both include all forms of energy. The difference is in their specific application; the first law applies to thermodynamic systems in relation to heat, work, and internal energy. Option d is the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

The first law of thermodynamics and the conservation of energy are related principles, both asserting that energy cannot be created or destroyed. The primary difference lies in the context of their application.

The first law of thermodynamics considers all forms of energy (including thermal, mechanical, and others) and specifically relates to systems in thermodynamics, detailing the relationship between heat transfer, work done, and change in internal energy of a system. In contrast, the broad principle of conservation of energy applies to all forms of energy in any scenario, not just thermal systems.

The correct answer to the student's question is d) First law and Conservation of energy are identical in the types of energy considered.