An ideal monatomic gas undergoes a reversible expansion to 1.5 times its original volume. In which of these processes does the gas have the largest loss of internal energy?
A) at constant pressure
B) if the pressure increases in proportion to the volume
C) if the pressure decreases in proportion to the volume
D) at constant temperature
E) adiabatically

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In an adiabatic process, there is no exchange of heat between the system and the surroundings. Therefore, the internal energy of the gas can only change due to work done on or by the gas. Since the gas undergoes a reversible expansion, it must do work on the surroundings, leading to a decrease in internal energy. In contrast, in processes where pressure or temperature are held constant, the gas can exchange heat with the surroundings, leading to potential changes in internal energy that cannot be solely attributed to work. Thus, the adiabatic process would result in the largest loss of internal energy.

An Ideal Monatomic Gas Undergoes a Reversible Expansion to 1