What is a thermodynamic cycle?
Q: What is a thermodynamic cycle?
A: A thermodynamic cycle is a series of thermodynamic processes that returns a system to its initial state.
Q: Do properties change over a thermodynamic cycle?
A: No, properties depend only on the thermodynamic state and thus do not change over a cycle.
Q: Are heat and work zero over a thermodynamic cycle?
A: No, heat and work are not zero over a cycle, but rather depend on the process.
Q: What does the first law of thermodynamics dictate over a cycle?
A: The first law of thermodynamics dictates that the net heat input is equal to the net work output over any cycle.
Q: Why is the cycle an important concept in thermodynamics?
A: The repeating nature of the process path allows for continuous operation, making the cycle an important concept in thermodynamics.
Q: What does a clockwise thermodynamic cycle represent?
A: If the cyclic process moves clockwise around the loop, then it represents a heat engine, and W will be positive.
Q: What does a counterclockwise thermodynamic cycle represent?
A: If it moves counterclockwise, then it represents a heat pump, and W will be negative.
