Given a cyclic process on a p-V diagram, the area enclosed by the paths is

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The area enclosed by the paths in a p-V (pressure-volume) diagram for a cyclic process represents the work done by the system. This is because work in thermodynamics is given by the integral of pressure with respect to volume, which geometrically corresponds to the area under the curve in a p-V diagram. In a cyclic process, the system returns to its initial state, so the change in internal energy is zero, making option A incorrect. The net exchanged heat can contribute to work and changes in internal energy, but it is not represented solely by the area enclosed in the p-V diagram.

Given a Cyclic Process on a P-V Diagram, the Area