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IB Physics HL B.4.6 Second law of thermodynamics Question Bank

Practise IB Physics HL B.4.6 by applying second law of thermodynamics concepts to exam-style physics questions.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Physics HL
Level
HL

Exam points

  • identify the relevant physical quantity, model or diagram
  • apply the correct equation and units to the evidence
  • justify the result using conservation laws, forces or energy relationships

B.4.6 (HL)—Second law of thermodynamics question 1

[Maximum number: 2]

This question is in two parts. Part 1 is about simple harmonic motion (SHM). Part 2 is about gas in an engine.

Part 1 Simple harmonic motion (SHM)
An object is placed on a frictionless surface. The object is attached by a spring fixed at one end and oscillates at the end of the spring with simple harmonic motion (SHM).

Figure for Question B.4.6 (HL)—Second law of thermodynamics question 1 — IB Physics HL

The tension F in the spring is given by F=k x where x is the extension of the spring and k is a constant.

The shaded area WXYZ is 610 J . The total thermal energy transferred out of the gas in one cycle is 1.3 kJ .

Explain why the total thermal energy transferred out of the gas is degraded.

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