Callen H.B - Thermodynamics And An Introduction To Thermostatistics · Problem 6.2-2

THE EXTREMUM PRINCIPLE IN THE LEGENDRE TRANSFORMED REPRESENTATIONS

Physics — Statistical Mechanics · van-der-waals-helmholtz-work

Problem

Two ideal van der Waals fluids are contained in a cylinder, separated by an internal moveable piston. There is one mole of each fluid, and the two fluids have the same values of the van der Waals constants bb and cc; the respective values of the van der Waals constant ``aa'' are a1a_1 and a2a_2. The entire system is in contact with a thermal reservoir of temperature TT. Calculate the Helmholtz potential of the composite system as a function of TT and of the total volume VV. If the total volume is doubled (while allowing the internal piston to adjust), what is the work done by the system? Recall Problem 5.3-2.

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