An ideal gas at temperature T₁ is expanded adiabatically. Its final temperature T₂ is:
AT₂ > T₁ (heating)
BT₂ < T₁ (cooling)
CT₂ = T₁ (no change)
DDepends on the gas
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: B. T₂ < T₁ (cooling)
1. In adiabatic expansion, gas does positive work on surroundings (W > 0).
2. Since Q = 0, ΔU = −W < 0.
3. For an ideal gas U ∝ T, so ΔU < 0 ⇒ ΔT < 0.
4. Hence the gas cools on adiabatic expansion — the principle behind cloud formation in rising air.
_Source: NCERT Class 11 Physics Ch 11, §11.7 Adiabatic Process_
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