A gas expands from an initial volume of 0.040 m³ and an initial pressure of 210 kPa to a final volume of 0.065 m³ while its temperature is kept constant. How much work is done by the system? A) 3.7 kJ B) 4.1 kJ C) 5.3 kJ D) 5.6 kJ E) 7.9 kJ

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since the temperature is constant, the gas follows the equation W = -PΔV, where ΔV is the change in volume and P is constant pressure. Therefore,

W = -PΔV = -(210 kPa)(0.065 m3 - 0.040 m3) = -4.1 kJ

Note that the negative sign indicates work done by the system. Therefore, the work done by the system is 4.1 kJ, so the best choice is B.

A Gas Expands from an Initial Volume of 0