Contextualization

Theoretical Fundamentals

In physics, we study a variety of powerful concepts and phenomena, but few are as fundamental as the principle of conservation of energy. One of the greatest applications of this principle is the idea of "internal energy", especially when it comes to gases.

The internal energy of a gas is the sum of the kinetic energy and potential energy of its molecules. Since the molecules of a gas move freely, they have kinetic energy. In addition, the molecules themselves are made of atoms that share electrons, and this electron sharing leads to what we call potential energy.

The concept of internal energy is not just a theoretical concept, but is a crucial parameter in the study of thermology, and can be measured experimentally. It is directly related to other properties of the gas, such as pressure, volume, and temperature, and is fundamental in determining the thermodynamics of a system.

Real-World Applications

The internal energy of a gas is everywhere in our daily lives. For example, when you inflate a bicycle tire, the air pump does work on the gas inside the tire. This work is transformed into internal energy, which determines the gas pressure in the tire. Another example is the internal energy of gases in internal combustion engines, which is transformed into mechanical energy to move vehicles.

Furthermore, the internal energy of a gas is an extremely important concept in the industry, as it determines the efficiency of furnaces, boilers, refrigerators, power plants, and much more. These are just a few examples of how the internal energy of a gas plays a crucial role in various practical applications.

Practical Activity

Activity Title: Virtual Lab of Internal Energy

Project Objective

Explore and understand the concept of internal energy and how it applies to gases following an experimental procedure. Teamwork, time management, and effective communication will be highly emphasized skills throughout the project.

Detailed Project Description

In this project, students will use a gas simulation software to investigate the relationship between the internal energy of a gas and its macroscopic properties, such as pressure, volume, and temperature. The virtual simulation will allow students to change the gas conditions and observe how it affects its internal energy.

This is not only a valuable learning experience, but also an opportunity for students to work together to solve problems and make discoveries.

Required Materials

1. Computer with internet access for each group of students
2. Gas simulation software - we recommend PhET Interactive Simulations from the University of Colorado, which is free and has several excellent physics simulations.

Step-by-Step Guide for Activity Execution

1. Form groups of 3 to 5 students. Each group should have a computer with internet access.
2. Access the PhET website and select the simulation "States of Matter: Basics".
3. Start the simulation with the default settings. Observe the gas behavior and discuss with the group.
4. Use the temperature control to change the gas temperature and observe how it affects the gas internal energy.
5. Use the volume control to change the gas volume and observe how it affects the gas internal energy.
6. Assign each group member a variable (temperature, volume) to monitor and record data.
7. Each group should collect data and generate a graph relating the assigned variable to the gas internal energy.
8. After data collection, each group should discuss their findings and try to reach a conclusion.
9. Each group should prepare a presentation showing their methods, data, and conclusions.

Project Delivery

Upon completion of the project, each group should produce a report that should follow the format below:

1. Introduction: Include an overview of the project, explain the relevance of the internal energy of a gas and why internal energy is important.
2. Development: Describe the theory on gas internal energy and explain in detail the activity performed. Include the description of the collected data and the discussion of the results.
3. Conclusion: Summarize the main points of the project, discuss what you learned from the experience, and draw conclusions about the project and the results found.
4. Bibliography: Cite all sources that assisted in the project development: books, web pages, videos, etc.

This report will be evaluated both for content and writing quality. Remember that all statements made must be supported by evidence. Additionally, group members should work together to ensure that the report is clear, coherent, and free of grammatical errors.