Gas in a container is at a pressure of 1.5 atm and a volume of 4.0 m^3. What is the work done

step 1 So in this question it is given to us there is a gas at a pressure of 1 .5 atmosphere, which I'm

Gas in a container is at a pressure of 1.5 atm and a volume...

Gas in a container is at a pressure of $1.5 \mathrm{~atm}$ and a volume of $4.0 \mathrm{~m}^{3}$. What is the work done $o n$ the gas (a) if if expands at constant pressure to twice its initial volume, and (b) if it is compressed at constant pressure to onequarter its initial volume?

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Key Concepts

Work in Thermodynamics

This concept refers to the energy transferred when a system undergoes a volume change against an external pressure. In the context of gases, the work is determined by integrating the pressure over the change in volume. It forms a core part of energy analysis in thermodynamic processes, linking mechanical work with internal energy changes.

Constant Pressure Process

In a constant pressure process, the pressure remains unchanged throughout the transformation. This simplification allows the work done by or on the gas to be calculated as the product of the constant pressure and the net change in volume. Such processes are common in many practical situations and form a basis for understanding more complex thermodynamic transformations.

Sign Conventions for Work

Understanding the sign conventions is crucial in thermodynamics. Typically, work done on a system (such as compressing a gas) is considered positive, while work done by the system (such as expansion) is taken as negative. These conventions help in correctly applying the first law of thermodynamics and in analyzing energy exchanges.

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