Answer:
Vi = 0.055 m³ = 55 L
Explanation:
From first Law of Thermodynamics, we know that:
ΔQ = ΔU + W
where,
ΔQ = Heat absorbed by the system = 52.5 J
ΔU = Change in Internal Energy = -102.5 J (negative sign shows decrease in internal energy of the system)
W = Work Done in Expansion by the system = ?
Therefore,
52.5 J = - 102.5 J + W
W = 52.5 J + 102.5 J
W = 155 J
Now, the work done in a constant pressure condition is given by:
W = PΔV
W = P(Vf - Vi)
where,
P = Constant Pressure = (0.5 atm)(101325 Pa/1 atm) = 50662.5 Pa
Vf = Final Volume of System = (58 L)(0.001 m³/1 L) = 0.058 m³
Vi = Initial Volume of System = ?
Therefore,
155 J = (50662.5 Pa)(0.058 m³ - Vi)
Vi = 0.058 m³ - 155 J/50662.5 Pa
Vi = 0.058 m³ - 0.003 m³
<u>Vi = 0.055 m³ = 55 L</u>
