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AP Physics 2: Thermodynamics Core Concepts

Master the laws of thermodynamics, ideal gas behavior, and heat transfer mechanisms with these medium-difficulty flashcards aligned to the AP Physics 2 exam.

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#1

Front

Absolute Zero

Back

The theoretical temperature at which a system's entropy would reach a minimum and particles have minimal kinetic energy. For an ideal gas, this is 0 Kelvin (-273.15°C), where volume and pressure approach zero in a Charles's Law graph extrapolation.

#2

Front

Ideal Gas Law Equation

Back

PV = nRT. This formula relates Pressure (P), Volume (V), number of moles (n), the Ideal Gas Constant (R), and Temperature (T). It assumes gas particles occupy negligible volume and have no intermolecular forces.

#3

Front

Kinetic Molecular Theory: Pressure Origin

Back

Pressure is caused by the collisions of gas particles with the walls of the container. It is calculated as the force exerted per unit area (P = F/A), resulting from the change in momentum of particles during elastic collisions.

#4

Front

Thermal Equilibrium

Back

The state reached when two objects in contact no longer transfer net energy between them. This occurs when the objects are at the same temperature. Energy flows spontaneously from the higher-temperature system to the lower-temperature system until equilibrium is reached.

#5

Front

Conduction vs. Radiation vs. Convection

Back

Conduction is energy transfer via direct contact of particles (solids). Convection is energy transfer via the movement of heated fluid mass (liquids/gases). Radiation is energy transfer via electromagnetic waves, requiring no medium.

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