Using the first law of thermodynamics:
Q=ΔU+W
Since the gas is diatomic with rotational modes only, the degrees of freedom are f=5, so:
CV=25R
For n=1 mole and ΔT=1.2 K:
ΔU=nCVΔT=1×25×8.3×1.2=24.9 J
Work done by the gas:
W=PΔV
Cross-sectional area of the piston:
A=4 cm2=4×10−4 m2
Piston displacement:
x=25 mm=2.5×10−2 m
Change in volume:
ΔV=A⋅x=(4×10−4)(2.5×10−2)=1×10−5 m3
With P=100 kPa=105 Pa:
W=(105)(1×10−5)=1 J
Therefore, the heat supplied is:
Q=ΔU+W=24.9+1=25.9 J
Hence, the heat supplied to the gas is 25.9 J.