The PV diagram of a cyclic process shows a curve that encloses an area.The work done by the heat engine,represented by the enclosed area,is positive when the path around the area proceeds in which of the following fashions?
A)clockwise
B)counterclockwise
C)It is always positive.
D)It is always negative.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The work done by a heat engine is given by the area enclosed by the PV diagram. If the path around the enclosed area proceeds in a clockwise direction, it means that the work is done in the same direction as the displacement of the system, resulting in a positive value for work. Therefore, option A is the best choice. If the process proceeds counterclockwise, the work done will be negative.

The PV Diagram of a Cyclic Process Shows a Curve