PV Graph Rev vs Irrev: Adiabatic Differences

[cns]

What's the difference in the PV graph for a reversible process vs. an irreversible process?

I know for adiabtic you would get a smooth (log like) downwards cruve if it's reversible but what about ireeversible?

Thanks

 

[dacruick]

I'm pretty sure a reversible process travels along the same curve while the irreversible process will have 2 separate paths.

check out wikipediea http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reversible_process_(thermodynamics ) it could be useful.

 

[DrDu]

Which p do you want to use in your pV diagram in case of an irreversible process?

 

[cns]

thanks I think I got it. Its just I straight vertical line down then across to where the final pt is suppose to be

cheers :D