thermodynamics

explain U = n*K, and give examples of instances where U is big and where U is small

the thermal energy of a system is equal to the average kinetic energy (temperature) of a molecule multiplied by the number of molecules

since thermal energy is directly proportional to the number of molecules and the temperature of the system:

• big and hot objects have high thermal energy

• small and cold objects have low thermal energy

define a closed system and give an example

• energy cant move in or out of the system

• energy is CONSERVED, ΔU = 0

• no type of any energy can move through walls

• impossible, just close enough

• examples, sealed box, piston, anything with a lid, the universe

define an open system and give an example

• thermal energy is NOT conserved in the system; it is free to move in or out

• ΔU > 0

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