The volume of an ideal gas changes from 0.40 to 0.51 m³ although its pressure remains constant at 52 000 Pa.What work is done on the system by its environment? A)5.7E+3 J B)-5.7E+3 J C)-2.1E+4 J D)2.1E+4 J E)-2.7E+4 J

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The work done on the system is given by the formula, W = -PΔV, where P is the constant pressure, ΔV is the change in volume. 
Substituting the given values, W = -52000 Pa * (0.51 m^3 - 0.40 m^3) = -5.7E+3 J. Since the volume of the gas increases, work is done on the gas by the environment, which means the work done on the system is negative. Therefore, the correct choice is B.

The Volume of an Ideal Gas Changes from 0