Arrange the following in order of magnitude of work done by the system / on the system at constant temperature:

(a) for expansion in infinite stage.
(b) for expansion in single stage.
(c) for comp

Question

Arrange the following in order of magnitude of work done by the system / on the system at constant temperature:

(a)  for expansion in infinite stage.
(b)  for expansion in single stage.
(c)  for compression in infinite stage.
(d)  for compression in single stage.

Canvas Classes · Accepted Answer

Strategy:
 Determine the absolute magnitude of work under different constraints. Reversible processes maximize work done by the system during expansion () and minimize work done on the system during compression ().

Step 1: Hierarchical order
1. : Maximum work required (Single stage against highest pressure). (d)
2. : (c) and (a).
3. : Minimum work obtained. (b)
Result: .

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