Heat transfer is.

Heat transfer is

a. a point function
b. a path function
c. a transfer function
d. none of the above

Correct Answer : b. a path function

Explanation :

The quantity of heat transfer that is heat flow Q can be determined in terms of the work W in the same process. Work involved in a process is not the same because it depends upon the path through which the process is carried out. The work involved in a process is not conserved. But, the difference (Q – W) is conserved for all the paths between the two states in a process, because of principle of conservation of energy. Therefore, heat flow Q, like W, depends on the path through which the process is carried out. Heat flow is path-dependent not a property. Therefore heat transfer is a path function. The amount of heat transfer when a system changes from state 1 to state 2 depends on the paths through which the system passes.