Why is Pressure Volume Work called P*delta V

The simplest example is a cylinder with a movable, frictionless piston, with constant pressure applied.In summary, the expression "deltaP * deltaV work" or "deltaP * V work" refers to work done when there is a constant pressure while volume changes. An example of this is a cylinder with a movable piston and constant pressure applied.
  • #1
sp3sp2sp
100
4
Why isn't it called deltaP *delta V work? Or deltaP*V work?
Does the expression mean that P is constant while V changes and also what is an example of that?
thanks for any help
 
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  • #2
sp3sp2sp said:
Why isn't it called deltaP *delta V work? Or deltaP*V work?
Does the expression mean that P is constant while V changes...
Yes. There are scenarios where pressure can change along with volume, but you can't have work done with a pressure change and no volume change.
...and also what is an example of that?
A hydraulic or pneumatic piston.
 
  • #3
To the OP @sp3sp2sp You should realize that work is force times distance. In this case pressure is force per unit area, ## P=\frac{F}{A} ##, and the volume change is the area times ## d x ##, i.e. ## dV=A \, d x ##. The area cancels, and we get ## dW=P \, dV= F \, d x ##.
 

1. Why is Pressure Volume Work called P*delta V?

Pressure Volume Work is called P*delta V because it is the product of pressure (P) and change in volume (delta V). This term is commonly used in thermodynamics to describe the work done by a system as it undergoes a change in volume.

2. How is Pressure Volume Work calculated?

To calculate Pressure Volume Work, you multiply the pressure (P) by the change in volume (delta V). The formula is W = P * delta V. The unit for work is typically Joules (J).

3. What is the significance of Pressure Volume Work in thermodynamics?

Pressure Volume Work is significant in thermodynamics because it is a measure of the energy exchanged between a system and its surroundings during a change in volume. It is an important concept in the study of heat and energy transfer.

4. Can Pressure Volume Work be negative?

Yes, Pressure Volume Work can be negative. This occurs when the system does work on its surroundings, such as in the case of a gas expanding against a piston. In this scenario, the work is considered to be negative because the energy is being transferred out of the system.

5. How does Pressure Volume Work relate to the First Law of Thermodynamics?

Pressure Volume Work is a type of work described in the First Law of Thermodynamics, which states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or converted from one form to another. In the case of Pressure Volume Work, the energy is being transferred between a system and its surroundings in the form of work.

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