Isobaric Process

An isobaric process is a thermodynamic process in which the pressure of the system remains constant while energy is transferred to or from the system in the form of heat. In this case, heat is being supplied to air in a cylinder fitted with a frictionless piston held by a constant weight.

Explanation

When heat is supplied to the air in the cylinder, the air molecules gain energy and their kinetic energy increases. This increase in kinetic energy results in an increase in the temperature of the air. However, since the piston is held by a constant weight, the pressure inside the cylinder remains constant.

Characteristics of an Isobaric Process

- Pressure remains constant: In an isobaric process, the pressure of the system remains constant throughout the process. This is achieved by adjusting the external force (in this case, the weight holding the piston) to counterbalance any changes in pressure caused by the heat transfer.

- Heat transfer: In an isobaric process, energy is transferred to or from the system in the form of heat. In this case, heat is being supplied to the air, increasing its temperature.

- Volume changes: In an isobaric process, the volume of the system can change. As heat is transferred to the air, the increased temperature causes the air molecules to move faster, leading to an expansion of the air and an increase in volume.

- Work done: Since the pressure remains constant in an isobaric process, the work done on or by the system can be calculated using the formula: work = pressure x change in volume. In this case, the work done is determined by the weight holding the piston.

Conclusion

Based on the given information, the process is an isobaric process because the pressure of the system remains constant while heat is being supplied to the air in the cylinder.