The equation of state for a certain gas under isothermal conditions is PV = 31.2, where the units are SI. The work done by this gas as its volume increases isothermally from 0.2 m³ to 0.8 m³ is approximately A) 2.86 J. B) 28.6 J. C) 43.3 J. D) 71.8 J. E) 115 J.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The work done by a gas during an isothermal expansion is given by W = nRT ln(Vf/Vi). Here, PV = 31.2 implies nRT = 31.2. Therefore, W = 31.2 ln(0.8/0.2) = 31.2 ln(4) ≈ 43.3 J.

The Equation of State for a Certain Gas Under Isothermal