A sample of gas expands from volume V1 to V2.The amount of work done b...
Isobaric in case of expansion work done is greatest in isobaric than isothermal or adiabatic
A sample of gas expands from volume V1 to V2.The amount of work done b...
Understanding Work Done in Gas Expansion
The work done by a gas during expansion depends on the conditions of the expansion process. Let's evaluate the three types of expansions: adiabatic, isobaric, and isothermal.
1. Adiabatic Expansion
- In adiabatic expansion, the gas expands without exchanging heat with its surroundings.
- The work done is influenced by the change in internal energy, which is directly related to temperature changes.
- While the gas can do significant work, it also experiences a drop in temperature, affecting the total work done.
2. Isobaric Expansion
- In isobaric expansion, the pressure remains constant while the gas expands.
- The work done is calculated as W = P(V2 - V1), where P is the constant pressure.
- This process allows for a straightforward calculation of work, but the work done may not be maximized due to constant pressure conditions.
3. Isothermal Expansion
- In isothermal expansion, the temperature remains constant, meaning the gas absorbs heat from the surroundings.
- The work done in this scenario is given by W = nRT ln(V2/V1).
- Since the gas continuously receives heat, it can perform significant work without reducing its temperature.
Conclusion
Among the three processes, the work done by the gas is greatest during isothermal expansion. This is because the gas can absorb heat, maintaining its temperature and allowing for greater energy transfer in the form of work.
Choosing the appropriate process for maximum work output is crucial in thermodynamic applications, especially in engines and refrigeration systems.
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