B How to measure the area of a Clapeyron diagram (pV diagram)?

AI Thread Summary
To measure the area of a Clapeyron (pV) diagram, various methods can be employed, including weighing cut-out shapes or using graph paper to estimate the area by counting squares. A sensitive balance is recommended for accurate measurements, while tracing the diagram onto squared paper can help in approximating the area. Knowledge of integral calculus may enhance understanding and calculation of the area, particularly if the equations for each side of the diagram are known. It's suggested to share the diagram's origin for better context. Overall, these methods provide practical approaches for high school students to tackle the area measurement challenge.
TheAnt
Messages
19
Reaction score
1
The question is in the title. However my mathematical ability is limited as I am a high school student.

Thank you in advance
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Many different methods . Post the diagram and tell us where it originates .
 
Cut out the area with a scissors and weigh it on a sensitive balance. Then cut out a known rectangular area of the paper and weigh it to calibrate the paper.
 
  • Like
Likes Buffu
Chestermiller said:
Cut out the area with a scissors and weigh it on a sensitive balance. Then cut out a known rectangular area of the paper and weigh it to calibrate the paper.
Thank you I will try this, I do not know if I have access to a sensitive enough balance.
 
Nidum said:
Many different methods . Post the diagram and tell us where it originates .
400px-Carnot_cycle_p-V_diagram.svg.png
 
You're a high school student, but some high school students have had calculus. Have you had integral calculus yet?
 
Trace the shape onto squared graph paper and count the squares. You'll find that most fractions of a square can readily be paired with another to form the equivalent of one whole square, then use your best estimate for the area of each of those remaining.

holly-1756.gif
 
Chestermiller said:
Have you had integral calculus yet?
And do you know the P-V equations for each "side" of the figure in your diagram?
 
Back
Top