Thermodynamics - Work Done in a Closed System (Polytropic?)

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on a thermodynamics problem involving the compression of a gas in a closed system, where the pressure changes from 3 bar to 5 bar and the volume decreases from 0.9 m³ to 0.6 m³. The user calculates the polytropic index (n) as 1.26 and applies the polytropic process formula to determine the work done. The calculated work done is -115385 Joules, indicating that work is done on the system. The user seeks confirmation on the correctness of their method and calculations. Overall, the approach appears to be accurate based on the provided values and formulas.
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Just want to check that I've used the correct method for this thermodynamics question I've been set. Any clarification would be greatly appreciated.

So I have a closed system in which a gas is compressed from a pressure of 3 bar absolute to 5 bar absolute. The volume changes from 0.9m^3 to 0.6m^3 after compression. This is according to the law P1*V1^n = P2*V2^n.

I've calculated the value n using transposition and logs.

I need to find:
b) The work done, stating whether it is done on the system or on the surroundings.

2. The attempt at a solution

b) P1 = 3 bar = 300000 n/m^2
P2 = 5 bar = 500000 n/m^2
V1 = 0.9 m^3
V2 = 0.6 m^3
Index N = 1.26

I believe the formula that you are supposed to use is the polytropic process formula for work done:

Work Done = (P1*V1) - (P2*V2) / N-1

Work Done = (300000*0.9) - (500000*0.6) / 1.26-1

Work Done = 270000 - 300000 / 0.26

Work Done = -115385 Joules
-115.4 KJ

Because the work done is a negative value I believe the work is being done on the system.

Now have I done this correctly or have I slipped up and used the wrong method? Cheers for any help!
 
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