Calculating Work Done on a Gas Under Constant Pressure: 4.0L to 2.0L at 850 Pa

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SUMMARY

The work done on an ideal gas during compression from 4.0L to 2.0L at a constant pressure of 850 Pa is calculated using the formula W = -P(ΔV). The change in volume (ΔV) is -2.0L, leading to a work value of 1700 Joules. The negative sign indicates that work is done on the gas, confirming that the work done is indeed positive in magnitude. The correct interpretation of the sign is crucial for accurate calculations in thermodynamics.

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Homework Statement



Question: The volume of an ideal gas is compressed from 4.0L to 2.0L under a constant pressure of 850 Pa. How much work is done on the gas?

Homework Equations



W=-P(Change in volume)

The Attempt at a Solution



I keep coming out with -1.7 which I know is incorrect.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
1.Don't forget the unit of work.
2.Do you think that the work done on the gas is negative or could it be positive?
 

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