HESI A2 Physics Practice Test Related

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Enthalpy (H) is a thermodynamic property defined as the sum of a system's internal energy (U) and the product of its pressure (P) and volume (V). The relationship between these is:

  • A. H = U + PV
  • B. H = U - PV
  • C. H = U / PV
  • D. H = PV / U
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Enthalpy (H) is defined as H = U + PV, where U represents internal energy, P is pressure, and V is volume. Enthalpy includes both the internal energy of a system and the energy required to create space for the system against an external pressure. Therefore, the correct relationship between enthalpy, internal energy, pressure, and volume is H = U + PV. Choice B is incorrect as subtracting PV would not account for the work done against pressure. Choice C is incorrect as dividing U by PV doesn't represent the definition of enthalpy. Choice D is incorrect as dividing PV by U is not the correct relationship based on the definition of enthalpy.