Parameter-Based Thermodynamic Integration Analysis

00:00 8 marks

  • Exam Style - Paper 1
  • HL
  • Tier 4
  • Indefinite integration
  • Parameter sensitivity
  • Thermodynamics applications

Consider the function \(I(k) = \int_{0}^{2} e^{-kx} dx\) which models the rate of heat dissipation in a thermal system, where \(k > 0\) is a parameter representing thermal conductivity.

(a) Evaluate the integral \(I(k)\) and express your result in terms of \(k\).

(b) Determine the sensitivity of \(I(k)\) with respect to \(k\) by finding \(\frac{dI}{dk}\) and then evaluating it at \(k = 1\). Explain what this sensitivity value indicates in the context of the thermal system.

Part a

5 minutes 4 marks

Question

Evaluate the integral \(I(k) = \int_{0}^{2} e^{-kx} dx\) and express it in terms of \(k\).



Hint Hint

Hint

Use the antiderivative of \(e^{-kx}\), which is \(-\frac{1}{k}e^{-kx}\), and apply the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.

  • Answer Answer

Complete Answer

\(I(k) = \frac{1 – e^{-2k}}{k}\)

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  • Answer Explanation Answer Explanation

Part b

5 minutes 4 marks

Question

Determine the sensitivity of \(I(k)\) with respect to \(k\) by finding \(\frac{dI}{dk}\) and evaluate it at \(k = 1\). Explain what this sensitivity value indicates in the context of the thermal system.



Hint Hint

Hint

Differentiate \(I(k) = \frac{1 – e^{-2k}}{k}\) with respect to \(k\) using the quotient rule. After evaluating at \(k=1\), consider the physical meaning of the derivative in terms of heat dissipation and thermal conductivity.

  • Answer Answer

Complete Answer

\(\frac{dI}{dk}\Big|_{k=1} = 3e^{-2} – 1\)

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