
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
The work done (W) by a gas during an expansion at constant pressure is given by:
W=P∆V=P(Vfinal −Vinitial)
where:
Pis the constant external pressure.
∆Vis the change in volume.
It is crucial to use consistent SI units for pressure (Pascals, Pa) and volume (cubic meters,
m³) to get the work done in Joules (J).
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The problem provides the following values:
Initial volume, Vinitial = 2 m³.
Final volume, Vfinal = 4 m³.
Constant pressure, P= 5 atm.
Conversion factor: 1 atm = 1.01 ×105Pa.
First, convert the pressure from atmospheres (atm) to Pascals (Pa):
P= 5 atm ×(1.01 ×105Pa/atm) = 5.05 ×105Pa
Next, calculate the change in volume:
∆V=Vfinal −Vinitial = 4 m3−2 m3= 2 m3
Now, calculate the work done:
W=P∆V= (5.05 ×105Pa) ×(2 m3)
W= 10.1×105J=1.01 ×106J
The calculated work done is 1.01 ×106J. Comparing this with the options, option (D)
1.02 ×106J is the closest value. The small difference is likely due to rounding of the
conversion factor for atmospheric pressure (e.g., using 1 atm = 1.013 x 10 Pa would give
a slightly different result, but still very close to this option).
Step 4: Final Answer:
The work done by the gas during expansion is approximately 1.01 ×106J, which corre-
sponds to option (D).
Quick Tip
In thermodynamics, the sign convention for work is important. When work is
done by the system (expansion), Wis positive. When work is done on the sys-
tem (compression), Wis negative. Always check the context of the question.
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