Which of the following statements correctly describes the signs of q and w for the following exothermic process at P = 1 atm and T = 370 K?
H₂O(g) $\to$ H₂O(l)

Question

Which of the following statements correctly describes the signs of q and w for the following exothermic process at P = 1 atm and T = 370 K? H₂O(g)$\to$ H₂O(l)

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since the process is exothermic (heat is being released), q must be negative. At constant pressure, the only work being done is expansion work, so w must be negative. Therefore, the correct statement is that q is negative and w is positive.

Which of the Following Statements Correctly Describes the Signs of Q