Answer: nRT ln(V₂/V₁).
- A zero throughout
- B nRT ln(V₂/V₁)
- C only PΔV
- D always negative
Correct answer: B. nRT ln(V₂/V₁)
Explanation: Reversible isothermal work = nRT ln(V₂/V₁), obtained by integrating P dV with P = nRT/V.
Isothermal expansion follows a gentler curve (heat flows in to keep T constant) while adiabatic expansion drops in pressure more steeply (no heat exchange, so internal energy and temperature fall as the gas does work).
Concept context
Study energy changes in chemical reactions. Understand enthalpy, entropy, Gibbs free energy, and the laws of thermodynamics that decide whether a reaction will occur spontaneously or not.