On a PV diagram,2 curves are plotted,both starting at the same point (P₁,V₁)and both ending at the same increased volume (V₂).One curve is for an isothermal process;the other is for an adiabatic process.Except for the common starting point,which curve is the upper one? A)The isothermal process curve will always be the upper one. B)The adiabatic process curve will always be the upper one. C)Since they start at the same point and end at the same volume,they will coincide. D)The isothermal one will start out higher,but the adiabatic one will eventually cross it.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a PV diagram, the isothermal process curve is always above the adiabatic process curve when both start from the same point and end at the same volume. This is because, for an isothermal process, the temperature remains constant, requiring heat exchange with the surroundings to maintain the temperature, resulting in a slower decrease in pressure compared to volume increase. In contrast, an adiabatic process involves no heat exchange with the surroundings, leading to a faster decrease in pressure for the same volume increase, thus placing the adiabatic curve below the isothermal curve.

On a PV Diagram,2 Curves Are Plotted,both Starting at the Same