Question

In an open, steady state system if the heat transferred is 10 J and work done by the system is 5 J, what is the change in Potential energy (neglect kinetic energy)?

(a) 5 J

(b) -5J

(c) 15 J

(d) -15 J

This question was posed to me in exam.

This is a very interesting question from Simplifications of General Energy Balance in division Application of Energy Balances in the Absence of Chemical Reactions and Energy Balances: How to Account for Chemical Reaction of Basic Chemical Engineering

Answer 1

The correct answer is (a) 5 J

For explanation: W + Q = ∆PE, => ∆PE = 10 – 5 = 5 J.