What does the term "adiabatic" specifically relate to in thermodynamics?

The term "adiabatic" specifically refers to processes in thermodynamics where there is no heat transfer between the system and its surroundings. In an adiabatic process, the system is thermally insulated, meaning that any changes in the internal energy of the system must come from work done on or by the system, rather than from heat exchange. This concept is crucial in various applications, such as in adiabatic expansion or compression of gases.

In thermodynamics, understanding adiabatic conditions is essential for analyzing systems that undergo rapid processes where there is insufficient time for heat transfer to occur. For instance, when a gas expands quickly in a piston, it does so adiabatically if no heat flows in or out during the expansion phase. As a result, the temperature of the gas changes due to work being done on or by the gas, not due to heat flow.

Other choices provided relate to different thermodynamic concepts. The transfer of heat specifically pertains to processes that are not adiabatic, while the change in temperature can occur in both adiabatic and non-adiabatic processes. The reaction quotient is related to chemical equilibria and does not pertain to heat transfer processes at all. Thus, understanding the term "adiabatic