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

Nursing Elites

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. Fluids can be categorized based on their shear stress-strain rate relationship. An ideal fluid exhibits:

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An ideal fluid, often referred to as an inviscid fluid, is a theoretical concept used in fluid mechanics to simplify calculations. It is characterized by having zero shear stress at any strain rate. In reality, such fluids do not exist, but they serve as a useful starting point for understanding fluid behavior in idealized situations. Choice B is incorrect because a linear relationship between shear stress and strain rate defines a Newtonian fluid, not an ideal fluid. Choice C is incorrect because a non-linear relationship between shear stress and strain rate characterizes Non-Newtonian fluids, not ideal fluids. Choice D is incorrect because the high dependence of viscosity on temperature is a characteristic seen in real fluids and does not define an ideal fluid.

3. A 5-cm candle is placed 20 cm away from a concave mirror with a focal length of 10 cm. What is the image distance of the candle?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: To find the image distance of the candle, we use the mirror formula: 1/f = 1/do + 1/di, where f is the focal length, do is the object distance, and di is the image distance. In this case, the focal length f = 10 cm and the object distance do = 20 cm. Substituting these values into the formula gives us 1/10 = 1/20 + 1/di. Solving for di, we get di = 60 cm. Therefore, the image distance of the candle is 60 cm. Choice A (20 cm) is incorrect because it represents the object distance, not the image distance. Choice B (40 cm) is incorrect as it does not consider the mirror formula calculation. Choice D (75 cm) is incorrect as it does not match the correct calculation based on the mirror formula.

4. What force was applied to the object that was moved if 100 N⋅m of work is done over 20 m?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Work is calculated using the formula Work = Force x Distance. Given that 100 N⋅m of work is done over 20 m, we can rearrange the formula to solve for Force. Force = Work / Distance. Plugging in the values, we get Force = 100 N⋅m / 20 m = 5 N. Therefore, the force applied to the object that was moved is 5 N. Choice B (80 N) is incorrect because it doesn't match the calculated force of 5 N. Choice C (120 N) is incorrect as it is higher than the calculated force. Choice D (2,000 N) is incorrect as it is significantly higher than the correct force of 5 N.

5. Fluid dynamics is a subfield of fluid mechanics concerned with:

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Fluid dynamics is the study of fluids in motion and their behavior under different conditions, including how they flow, mix, and interact with their surroundings. It focuses on the dynamic aspects of fluids rather than their static properties when at rest, which is the realm of fluid statics. Phase transitions of fluids between liquid, gas, and solid states are more related to thermodynamics than fluid dynamics. While engineering applications involve fluid dynamics, the field itself is more specialized in studying the movement and behavior of fluids.

Similar Questions

A closed system undergoes a cyclic process, returning to its initial state. What can be said about the net work done (Wnet) by the system over the entire cycle?
Two objects attract each other with a gravitational force of 12 units. If you double the mass of both objects, what is the new force of attraction between them?
According to the Clausius inequality, for a cyclic process involving heat transfer between a system and its surroundings at a single constant temperature (T), the following inequality must hold true:
The speed of sound in dry air at 20°C is 343 m/s. If the wavelength of a sound wave is 5 m, what is its frequency?
When a junked car is compacted, which statement is true?

Access More Features

HESI A2 Basic
$99/ 30 days

  • 3,000 Questions with answers
  • 30 days access

HESI A2 Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • Actual HESI A2 Questions
  • 3,000 questions with answers
  • 90 days access

Other Courses