On a $p - V$ diagram, if both curves intersect at one point, the slope of an isothermal curve (compared to an adiabatic curve) at the point of intersection is

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The slope of an isothermal curve is less steep than that of an adiabatic curve at the point of intersection on a $p-V$ diagram because, for an ideal gas, the isothermal process follows $PV = \text{constant}$, while the adiabatic process follows $PV^\gamma = \text{constant}$, where $\gamma$ (gamma) is the heat capacity ratio ($C_p/C_v$) greater than 1. This results in the adiabatic curve being steeper due to the higher exponent on the volume $V$.

On A p−Vp - Vp−V Diagram, If Both Curves Intersect at One Point, the Slope

On A $p - V$ Diagram, If Both Curves Intersect at One Point, the Slope