3 Application of the first law of thermodynamics in some thermodynamic processes (Isobaric Isothermal Isochoric)
1. The graph below shows the thermodynamic cycle experienced by a gas. The work done by gas on the process ABCD is …
Known :
Pressure 1 (P1) = 2 x 105 Pa
Pressure 2 (P2) = 4 x 105 Pa
Volume 1 (V1) = 1 m3
Volume 2 (V2) = 3 m3
Wanted: Work done by gas on process ABCD (W).
Solution :
Work done by a gas is equal to the area of ABCD.
W = (P2 – P1)(V2 – V1)
W = (4 x 105 – 2 x 105)(3 – 1)
W = (2 x 105)(2)
W = 4 x 105 Joule
[irp]
2. The work done by gas on process ABC is…
Known :
Pressure 1 (P1) = 3 x 105 Pa
Pressure 2 (P2) = 6 x 105 Pa
Volume 1 (V1) = 20 cm3 = 20 x 10-6 m3
Volume 2 (V2) = 60 cm3 = 60 x 10-6 m3
Wanted : The work done by gas on process ABC
Solution :
Work done by gas = area of ABC.
W = ½ (P2 – P1)(V2 – V1)
W = 1/2 (6 x 105 – 3 x 105)(60 x 10-6 – 20 x 10-6)
W = 1/2 (3 x 105)(40 x 10-6)
W = 1/2 (120 x 10-1 Joule)
W = 1/2 (12 Joule)
W = 6 Joule
[irp]
3. PV diagram for a gas in a closed container shown in figure below. The work done by the gas is shown in which process.
Solution
Process AB and process DC are isobaric processes (the pressure is kept constant). Process AD and process BC are isochoric processes (volume does not change).
The work was done by gas when the gas expands (process DC).
