Which of the following signs on q and w represent a system that is doing work on the surroundings,as well as losing heat to the surroundings?
A) q = -, w = -
B) q = +, w = +
C) q = -, w = +
D) q = +, w = -
E) None of these represent the system referenced above.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For a system doing work on the surroundings, work (w) is negative because energy is leaving the system. For a system losing heat to the surroundings, heat (q) is also negative because thermal energy is being transferred out of the system. Therefore, both q and w are negative, which matches option A.

Which of the Following Signs on Q and W Represent