Question:

A gas undergoes a thermodynamic process in which it absorbs 200 J of heat from the surroundings and performs 150 J of work on the surroundings. Determine the change in internal energy of the gas during the process.

(a) 200 J

(b) -50 J

(c) 50 J

(d) 350 J

Explanation:

The change in internal energy of a system is given by the equation:

ΔU = Q - W

where ΔU represents the change in internal energy, Q represents the heat absorbed by the system, and W represents the work done by the system.

In this case, the gas absorbs 200 J of heat from the surroundings (Q = 200 J) and performs 150 J of work on the surroundings (W = -150 J, as work done by the system is negative).

Substituting the given values into the equation:

ΔU = Q - W = 200 J - (-150 J) (Note: Negative sign from work done) = 200 J + 150 J = 350 J

Therefore, the change in internal energy of the gas during the process is 350 J.

Answer: The correct option is (d) 350 J.