Ideal Gases: What Kind of Work?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the concept of work related to ideal gases in thermodynamics. Work is defined as the energy transfer that can be achieved by moving an object, such as lowering a weight. This principle applies to ideal gases, where work can be extracted during processes like expansion or compression. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding how work is calculated and its implications in thermodynamic systems. Overall, the relationship between ideal gases and work is crucial for grasping fundamental thermodynamic principles.
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Ideal Gases and "Work"

Hi

When I read up on ideal gases I always find people talking about work extracted from ideal gases. But what kind of work are they talking about?

Cheers.
 
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A simple way to think about it is that work is anything that can in principle be carried out by lowering a weight.
 
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