State versus Path Functions (Thermodynamics) Discussion and Examples

[@chandrachurmukherjee9141]

if work is force * displacement and the displacement is same for both and also is the force(because the mass is same) how does one end up doing more work?

[@craiglistly8210]

why is heat a path function?

[@shawnshields6500]

Hi Craig- Great question! The heat (q) can vary a little depending on the process and whether it is carried out at constant pressure or constant volume. (The difference is quite small, however.) I think it is much easier to imagine how work is a path function than heat. :)

[@craiglistly8210]

thank you