Question

In thermodynamics, the 𝑃 - 𝑉 work done is given by:

w =−∫ dVP_ext

. For a system undergoing a particular process, the work done is:

w =−∫ dV (RT/V-b − a/V²)

This equation is applicable to a

a) System that satisfies the van der Waals equation of state.

b) Process that is reversible and isothermal.

c) Process that is reversible and adiabatic.

d) Process that is irreversible and at constant pressure.

Answer 1

Solution:

The correct options are a, b, c:

• In Thermodynamics the P-V work done is w =−∫ dVP_ext or w =−∫ P_ext,dV
• From van der waal equation of state for one-mole gas: (P+a/V²)(v−b)= RT,

The value of P is: P=[RT/V−b − a/V²].

• For reversible process: W=−∫ (RT/V-b − a/V²)dv.

Therefore, this process is not applicable for irreversible process.