A gas is compressed in a cylinder such that work is done on the gas at a rate of 60 W . Simultaneously, the internal energy of the gas decreases at a rate of 25 W . What is the rate of heat transfer, and is heat absorbed or released by the gas?

Step-by-step solution

According to the first law of thermodynamics in rate form: dQ dt = dU dt + dW dt Since work is done on the gas, the rate of work done is negative: dW dt = -60 W . Since the internal energy decreases, its rate of change is also negative: dU dt = -25 W . Substituting these values into the equation: dQ dt = -25 + (-60) = -85 W The negative sign indicates that heat is being released by the system to the surroundings. Therefore, heat is released at a rate of 85 W . Answer: 85 W , released