Question 1

Which of the following best describes an open thermodynamic system, as illustrated by a cup of hot coffee with no lid?

Accepted Answer

A system where both energy and matter can cross the boundary.

Question 2

A scientist observes that the perihelion of Mercury advances slightly more than predicted by Newtonian gravity. What principle of scientific progress does this illustrate?

Accepted Answer

Precision measurement can reveal discrepancies that lead to new or extended physics.

Question 3

Which law of thermodynamics establishes temperature as a measurable property?

Accepted Answer

Zeroth Law

Question 4

A refrigerator is an example of which type of thermodynamic system?

Accepted Answer

Closed system, because energy can cross the boundary but matter cannot.

Question 5

Which of the following is a requirement for a process to be considered reversible?

Accepted Answer

Both the driving force and opposing force must be balanced, and there must be no temperature difference between system and surroundings.

Question 6

Which equation correctly expresses the First Law of Thermodynamics for a closed system?

Accepted Answer

$$\Delta U = Q - W$$

Question 7

A student stirs a cup of coffee, causing temperature and velocity to vary throughout the liquid. Which type of thermodynamic state does this represent?

Accepted Answer

Non-equilibrium

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the Second Law of Thermodynamics?

Accepted Answer

The total entropy of an isolated system cannot decrease in any spontaneous process.

Question 9

A solar panel converts sunlight into electricity, which is then used to power a refrigerator. According to the laws of thermodynamics, what happens to the total entropy of the universe during this process?

Accepted Answer

The total entropy increases due to irreversible processes and waste heat generation.

Question 10

Which of the following is NOT a necessary habit for success in a university-level physics course, according to the syllabus?

Accepted Answer

Ignoring course announcements and updates.

Question 11

Which of the following statements about the Third Law of Thermodynamics is correct?

Accepted Answer

As temperature approaches absolute zero, the entropy of a perfect crystal approaches zero.

Question 12

A scientist uses a telescope to observe distant galaxies. Which statement best explains why new instruments like telescopes are important in physics?

Accepted Answer

They expand the observable world and reveal where existing theories reach their limits.

Question 13

Which of the following is an example of a quasi-equilibrium process?

Accepted Answer

Coffee cooling slowly with a lid on, where each instant is close to equilibrium.

Question 14

Which equation describes the energy of a photon?

Accepted Answer

$$E = h
u$$

Question 15

A scientist observes a systematic, reproducible mismatch between experimental results and theoretical predictions. What should be the next step according to the scientific method?

Accepted Answer

Check for calibration errors, bias, and overlooked conventional effects before proposing new physics.

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the difference between classical and quantum physics as discussed in the course?

Accepted Answer

Classical physics describes macroscopic phenomena, while quantum physics is needed for atomic and subatomic scales.

Question 17

Which of the following is a correct statement about energy transfer in a closed system?

Accepted Answer

Energy can cross the boundary, but matter cannot.

Question 18

Which of the following is a real-world example of an isolated system?

Accepted Answer

A well-insulated thermos flask with a tight lid.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the role of entropy in the Second Law of Thermodynamics?

Accepted Answer

Entropy measures the disorder of a system, and the total entropy of an isolated system cannot decrease.

PHY 241: Foundations and Principles of Thermodynamics, Optics, and Modern Physics

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