Chapter 21, Problem 8A

What is internal energy?

To determine

To Explain: Internal energy.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Total energy contained by matter is called internal energy due to the motion of molecules. This energy arises due to the potential and kinetic energy of molecules.

A system’s internal energy can be changed when heat is added or subtracted from the system or when work is done on the system.

Conclusion:

Thus, internal energy is total energy of a system which occurs due to kinetic and potential energy of constituent molecules.