Heat capacities, expansion and compressibility
For a fixed amount of simple compressible matter, C_V=(∂U/∂T)_V and C_p=(∂H/∂T)_p.
Key knowledge
For a fixed amount of simple compressible matter, C_V=(∂U/∂T)_V and C_p=(∂H/∂T)_p. With α=(1/V)(∂V/∂T)_p and κ_T=−(1/V)(∂V/∂p)_T, C_p−C_V=TVα²/κ_T in a smooth stable phase.
Values and equations
C_p−C_V=TVα²/κ_T; α=(1/V)(∂V/∂T)_p; κ_T=−(1/V)(∂V/∂p)_T
- C_p,C_V
- Heat capacities J K⁻¹
- T
- Temperature K
- V
- Volume m³
- α
- Volume expansion coefficient K⁻¹
- κ_T
- Isothermal compressibility Pa⁻¹
- p
- Pressure Pa
Conditions and scope
- Composition fixed; equilibrium response functions evaluated in a common single phase with κ_T>0.
- These are extensive heat capacities, not specific or molar capacities; singular critical limits need separate handling.
Sources · 1
References
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Evidence and review
Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics (2016): Specific heats: Equations 6.120–6.133: definitions, expansion, compressibility and capacity difference.
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Entry details
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