what is the main difference between a reversible and irreversible process in thermodynamics
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HESI A2

HESI Exams Quizlet Physics

1. What is the main difference between a reversible and irreversible process in thermodynamics?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A reversible process is an idealized process that can be reversed without leaving any change in either the system or the surroundings. In contrast, irreversible processes cannot be reversed and often involve entropy production or dissipation. Choice A is incorrect because both reversible and irreversible processes can involve heat transfer. Choice B is incorrect as the speed of a process does not determine its reversibility. Choice D is incorrect because reversible processes do not violate the first law of thermodynamics; they comply with it by maintaining a balance between energy inputs and outputs. Therefore, the correct answer is C, as it accurately captures the main difference between reversible and irreversible processes in thermodynamics.

2. Given the four wires described here, which would you expect to have the greatest resistance?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The wire with the greatest resistance is the one with the smallest diameter, as resistance is inversely proportional to cross-sectional area. Gauge 4 with a 5.19 mm diameter has the smallest diameter and, therefore, the greatest resistance. Choice A, B, and C have larger diameters compared to choice D, so they would have lower resistance values.

3. What is the diameter of a loop if its radius is 6 meters?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The diameter of a loop is calculated by multiplying the radius by 2. Since the radius is 6 meters, the diameter is 6 × 2 = 12 meters. Therefore, the correct answer is 12 meters. Choice A (6 m) is the radius, not the diameter. Choices C (18 m) and D (36 m) are incorrect as they do not reflect the correct calculation for determining the diameter of a loop.

4. In physics, the relationship between acceleration and force is expressed in ___________.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The relationship between acceleration and force is expressed in Newton’s second law of motion. This law states that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on the object and inversely proportional to the object's mass. Mathematically, this relationship is represented as F = ma, where F is the force, m is the mass of the object, and a is the acceleration. Choice A, Newton’s first law of motion, also known as the law of inertia, states that an object at rest stays at rest and an object in motion stays in motion with the same speed and in the same direction unless acted upon by an external force. Choice C, Newton’s third law of motion, states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction, focusing on the interaction between two objects. Choice D is incorrect because the relationship between acceleration and force is indeed described by one of Newton’s laws of motion, specifically the second law.

5. A 2,000-kg car travels at 15 m/s. For a 1,500-kg car traveling at 15 m/s to generate the same momentum, what would need to happen?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Momentum is calculated as the product of mass and velocity. Since momentum is conserved in the absence of external forces, for the 1,500-kg car to generate the same momentum as the 2,000-kg car at 15 m/s, it would need to increase its velocity to compensate for the difference in mass. Accelerating to 20 m/s would achieve this without needing to change the mass of the car. Choice B is incorrect because adding mass is not necessary to match momentum in this scenario.

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