Problems
Problem 1.1:
Suppose that we have a fuel cell battery, in which electrons flow from a
terminal in one half cell to a terminal in another. Explain this
phenomenon in terms of the chemical potential.
[Solution]
Problem 1.2:
Show that the units of pressure as we have defined it agree with those
of the conventional understanding of pressure.
[Solution]
Problem 1.3:
Forcing a system into a small volume makes the energy of the system
grow, whereas expanding the system, colloquially speaking, gives the
particles more room to relax, and the energy of the system decreases
(all for a process at constant entropy). Using the definition of
pressure we've investigated, show what happens to the pressure at large
volumes and very small volumes of the system. Does this agree with your
intuition?
[Solution]
Problem 1.4:
Is the energy of the system U an intensive or extensive variable?
[Solution]
Problem 1.5:
Explain why the entropy is an extensive variable.
[Solution]
