What does "Adiabatic Process" mean?
Table of Contents
An adiabatic process is a change in a system where no heat is added or taken away from the surroundings. This means that all energy changes come from work done on or by the system.
Everyday Examples
Think about when you quickly compress a gas in a bike pump. The gas inside gets warmer because it is compressed without letting any heat escape. Similarly, when a gas expands rapidly, it cools down because it does work on its surroundings while taking in no heat.
Importance
Adiabatic processes are important in many fields, including weather patterns, engines, and cooling systems. Understanding how these processes work helps us design better machines and systems that can use energy more efficiently.