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The internal energy of a body is maximum when its temperature is:

Correct answer: B. 273 K

  • A. 0 K
  • B. 273 K
  • C. -273 K
  • D. -273°C

Explanation

Internal energy is proportional to translational <K.E> that is proportional to T. The internal energy of a body is directlyrelated to its temperature, and it is maximum at the highest possibletemperature for that body. This relationship is described by the first law ofthermodynamics, which states that the change in internal energy (ΔU) of asystem is equal to the heat added (Q) to the system minus the work done (W) bythe system on its surroundings: ΔU = Q - W For an ideal gas, the internal energy (U) isrelated to temperature (T) by the following equation: U = nCvT Where: As you can see, the internal energy isdirectly proportional to the temperature (T) for an ideal gas. Therefore, tomaximize the internal energy, you would need to maximize the temperature. Thehigher the temperature, the greater the internal energy of the body, assumingother factors remain constant.

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About Thermal Equilibrium and Heat

Thermal equilibrium means that bodies in contact have the same temperature and no net heat flows between them. The topic distinguishes heat from temperature, uses the zeroth law of thermodynamics, and covers heat transfer, specific heat capacity, thermal expansion and the conditions for reaching equilibrium.

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