How to Calculate Work in Isothermal Reversible Expansion Using Virial Equation?

[winterwind]

Homework Statement

Calculate the work done during the isothermal reversible expansion of a gas that satisfies the virial equation of state.

Homework Equations

Virial equation of state: pV_m = RT(1+B/V_m + C/V_m + ...)

Isothermal reversible expansion: w = -nRT ln(V_f/V_i)

The Attempt at a Solution

I tried to substitute n with the expansion, but that is not correct. Any ideas?

Thanks!

 

[PhaseShifter]

The expression you're using for isothermal reversible expansion is only valid for an ideal gas.

Remember dw=-P dV.

Divide both sides of the virial equation of state by V_m and remember V_m=V/n, then you'll need to use calculus.