Iso-this, Iso-that - how the PV diagram should look

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In summary, the conversation discusses difficulties with understanding thermodynamic processes, specifically the PV diagram and expressions for Q and W. The speaker seeks tips on mastering the material and suggests deriving equations and using online resources for further understanding.
  • #1
gfd43tg
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Hello,


I am having difficulties in my study of thermodynamics to keep all of these Iso's in order. What I mean is, how the PV diagram should look for isothermal, isobaric, isochoric, and adiabatic processes, as well as expressions for Q and W for all of these processes, and in general the conceptual effects of changing T and P for all of these processes.

It's a bit overwhelming right now to think of how all these things interact when something is held constant in a box full of ideal gas and one other factor is changed, to determine other changes.

Any tips for those who have the material mastered?

Thank you
 
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  • #3
Also, try to google them.
 

1. What is an isothermal process?

An isothermal process is a thermodynamic process in which the temperature of a system remains constant. This means that the internal energy of the system remains constant throughout the process, and the PV diagram for an isothermal process is a horizontal line.

2. How does an isothermal process differ from an adiabatic process?

An isothermal process maintains a constant temperature, while an adiabatic process does not allow any heat exchange between the system and its surroundings. This means that the temperature of the system changes during an adiabatic process, resulting in a steeper PV diagram compared to an isothermal process.

3. What does a PV diagram for an isobaric process look like?

A PV diagram for an isobaric process is a straight vertical line, as the pressure of the system remains constant. This means that the volume of the system changes, but the pressure remains the same.

4. Can an isothermal process occur in real life?

While it is difficult to maintain a constant temperature in a system, isothermal processes can occur in real life under certain conditions. For example, the expansion and compression of gases in a well-insulated container can be considered isothermal as long as the process occurs quickly enough to prevent significant temperature changes.

5. How does the shape of a PV diagram for an isochoric process differ from an isobaric process?

An isochoric process, also known as an isovolumetric process, occurs at a constant volume. This means that the volume and pressure of the system change simultaneously, resulting in a curve on the PV diagram. In contrast, an isobaric process occurs at a constant pressure, resulting in a straight line on the PV diagram.

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