The only way in which a system can do work on the surroundings is by expansion against the external pressure.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Systems can do work on their surroundings in various ways, not just by expansion against external pressure. For example, electrical work, where a system does work on the surroundings by moving charges through a potential difference, and shaft work, where a system does work by rotating a shaft, are other ways systems can perform work.

The Only Way in Which a System Can Do Work