How Is Work Calculated in a Gas PV Diagram for Path a-d?

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SUMMARY

The work done by a gas along path a-d in a gas PV diagram is calculated using the formula W = ∫PdV, where P is the pressure and V is the volume. For paths a-b and c-d, the work is determined using W = P(ΔV), while for paths a-c and b-d, the work equals zero due to constant pressure. The area under the curve for path a-d forms a trapezoid, necessitating integration to accurately compute the work done, as pressure is not constant throughout the process.

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Problem.
http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/8068/pvdiagram2fo.gif
Find Work done by each path.

My Solution.
a-b, c-d >> W=P(delta)V
a-c, b-d >> W=0

My Question.
What is the work done by the gas (path a-d)?

My Thoughts.
There is a change in both pressure and volume. However, the equation to find the work in this situation is "W=P(delta)V". There is no (delta)P.
 
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could anyone help him?I'm kinda interested in the answer to this as well!
 
Last edited:
Are you familiar with integration? The answer is always found by calculating the area under the curve, which is exactly what you did for all the other ones. In this case, the area is a trapezoid
 
so the work done from a to d is W = deltaP * deltaV
very good, P is no longer constant so integrate that as well
as if it was that simple
 
Last edited:

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