Chapter 10, Problem 17A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The given statement needs to be explained.

Concept introduction: Thermodynamics is the branch of science which deals with study of energy. The change in the energy of the system is due to the flow of heat $\left(q\right)$ and work $\left(w\right)$ .

  $\Delta E=q+w$

Answer to Problem 17A

The chemist takes the system’s point of view in thermodynamic because in this convention the sign of heat $\left(q\right)$ and work $\left(w\right)$ reflects what happens to the system.

Explanation of Solution

If the system works on the surroundings, energy releases from the system. Therefore, the sign of work $\left(w\right)$ is negative. If the surroundings work on the system, energy is added to the system. Therefore, the sign of work $\left(w\right)$ is positive. The work and energy is defined from the system point of view in thermodynamic because the sign of heat $\left(q\right)$ and work $\left(w\right)$ reflects what happens to the system.

Conclusion

The chemist takes the system’s point of view in thermodynamic because the sign of heat $\left(q\right)$ and work $\left(w\right)$ reflects what happens to the system.