Question

Why is the sign of work different in chemistry and physics thermodynamics?

Answer 1

Explanation:

In physics , we are concerned about the surroundings And in chemistry, we concerned about the system. Whereas In chemistry , work done by the system is negative because the system loses some amount of energy to do work ! ... If system is doing work on surrounding, U will decrease if W is taken positive – and vice versa

Answer 2

Answer:

The difference is only due to the different sign convention in Physics and Chemistry. In Chemistry, work done on the system is positive and in Physics, work done by the system. ... W is negative means system did work and W is positive means system has work done on it.