Question detail

What is the relationship between work done on a gas and its internal energy (Increasing the pressure of a gas (physics only) (HT only))

Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.

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At a glance

MCQ

Type

practice

Style

Topic

Particle model and pressure

Question

A. Work done decreases internal energy
B. Work done has no effect on internal energy
C. Work done increases internal energy
D. Work done is unrelated to internal energy

Answer

The correct answer is Work done increases internal energy.

Explanation

Unit lens: Check the units before giving the final statement so the physics quantity is not swapped. This question asks: What is the relationship between work done on a gas and its internal energy (Increasing the pressure of a gas (physics only) (HT only)). The correct response is Work done increases internal energy, because gas pressure comes from particle collisions with container walls. In Increasing the pressure of a gas (physics only) (HT only), the marking point should connect directly to (Physics only) (HT only) Explain that compressing a gas can increase its internal energy. If the question includes values, the working must keep the appropriate unit and operation; if it is an explanation, it must name the relevant particle behaviour or energy change. This item belongs to Particle model and pressure, so avoid answers that switch to a different quantity, confuse heat with temperature, or describe gas pressure without collisions when collisions are the reason. Checkpoint 589 is distinct because it uses this exact question context and the unit lens rather than a generic particle-model sentence.

Common mistake

Confusing Internal Energy with Temperature

Students often confuse the concepts of internal energy and temperature, thinking that increasing internal energy directly means an increase in temperature.

To fix this, remember that while increasing internal energy can lead to a temperature increase, it depends on the specific heat capacity of the gas and the amount of work done on it. Focus on understanding the relationship between internal energy, temperature, and the physical processes involved.

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