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QPages 76-77: Q6: HC Verma: Concepts of Physics - Volume 2 Specific Heat Capacities of Gases Pages 76-77: Q6 Solution: The figure shows a process on a gas in which pressure and…

⚠️ Common Exam Traps & Conceptual Pitfalls

Students often assume that if heat is supplied ($Q > 0$), the molar heat capacity $C$ must be greater than $C_v$. However, if the gas is compressed (work done on the gas, $W < 0$), the term $W/n$ in $C = C_v + W/n$ can be sufficiently negative to make $C < C_v$.

The figure shows a process on a gas in which pressure and volume both change. The molar heat capacity for this process is C.

Multiple Choice Options

  • A C = 0
  • B C = CvC_v
  • C C > CvC_v
  • D C < CvC_v

Step-by-Step Verified Solution

**Answer:** (d) C < C_v. **Step-by-Step Explanation:** From the figure, the process has both P and V increasing. This requires heat supply. The molar heat capacity can be less than C_v if work is done on the gas.

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