Why does Q = H
for a reversible, constant pressure process?
Begin with the 1st Law:
dU = dQ - dW (1)
For a reversible process with only PV work, this becomes:
dU = dQrev - PdV (2)
The definition of enthalpy is:
H = U + PV (3)
Taking the derivative of equation (3):
dH = dU + d(PV) (4)
At constant pressure, this becomes:
(5)
Substituting eqn (2) into eqn (5), we get:
dH = (dQ - PdV) + PdV (6)
Or:
dH = dQ (7)
Which, upon integrating, becomes:
H
= Q
For examples, see S&VN pg 30, pg 48-51, pg 69 (covered in recitation),
and pg 152.
For thought: What relationships apply if the system is not constant
in pressure?