On a PV diagram, for a curve representing an isothermal compression of an ideal gas, what is the relationship between the initial P value and the final P value?
A) The initial is greater than the final.
B) The initial is less than the final.
C) They may be either-it depends on the temperature of the process.
D) They may be the same.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During an isothermal compression of an ideal gas, the volume decreases while the temperature remains constant. According to Boyle's Law (P1V1 = P2V2 for a given mass of gas at constant temperature), if the volume decreases (V2 < V1), the pressure must increase (P2 > P1) to maintain the equation's equality. Therefore, the initial pressure is less than the final pressure.

On a PV Diagram, for a Curve Representing an Isothermal