Change in Internal Energy Calculator

Calculate the change in internal energy (ΔU) of a system using heat added (Q) and work done (W) based on the first law of thermodynamics: ΔU = Q - W

Input Parameters

Calculation Results

Calculation Formula

ΔU = Q - W

Where:
ΔU = Change in Internal Energy (Joules)
Q = Heat Added (Joules)
W = Work Done (Joules)

Result

Change in Internal Energy (ΔU):

Change in Internal Energy Calculator Usage Guide

Learn how to use the Change in Internal Energy Calculator and understand its working principles

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter the amount of heat added (Q) to the system in Joules
  2. Enter the amount of work done (W) by the system in Joules
  3. Click the "Calculate" button to compute the change in internal energy (ΔU)
  4. The result will be displayed in Joules

Understanding Internal Energy

The internal energy (U) of a system is the total energy contained within it, including kinetic and potential energy of its molecules. The first law of thermodynamics states that the change in internal energy (ΔU) of a system is equal to the heat added to the system (Q) minus the work done by the system (W):

ΔU = Q - W

Where:

  • ΔU is the change in internal energy
  • Q is the heat added to the system (positive if added, negative if removed)
  • W is the work done by the system (positive if done by the system, negative if done on the system)

Practical Applications

This calculator is useful in thermodynamics for:

  • Calculating energy changes in chemical reactions
  • Analyzing heat engines and power plants
  • Understanding phase transitions in materials
  • Studying the energy changes in physical processes