Work Done In Irreversible Process Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ W_{irr} = -P_{ext} \times \Delta V \]

Irreversible Work Done (W_irr):

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1. What is Irreversible Work?

Irreversible work means that we can only bring the piston back to the starting state if we change the surrounding system. It represents work done in processes that cannot be reversed without changing the environment.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the irreversible work formula:

\[ W_{irr} = -P_{ext} \times \Delta V \]

Where:

\( W_{irr} \) — Irreversible work done (Joules)
\( P_{ext} \) — External pressure (Pascals)
\( \Delta V \) — Volume change (Cubic meters)

Explanation: The negative sign indicates that work is done by the system when volume increases (ΔV positive), and work is done on the system when volume decreases (ΔV negative).

3. Importance of Irreversible Work Calculation

Details: Calculating irreversible work is crucial for understanding energy transfer in thermodynamic systems, particularly in processes involving gas expansion or compression against constant external pressure.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter external pressure in Pascals and volume change in cubic meters. Both values must be valid numerical values.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between reversible and irreversible work?
A: Reversible work represents the maximum work that can be obtained from a process, while irreversible work is the actual work done when the process occurs against constant external pressure.

Q2: Why is there a negative sign in the formula?
A: The negative sign follows the thermodynamic convention where work done by the system is negative and work done on the system is positive.

Q3: When is this formula applicable?
A: This formula applies to processes where work is done against constant external pressure, such as free expansion or compression against atmospheric pressure.

Q4: What are the units for each variable?
A: External pressure is in Pascals (Pa), volume change is in cubic meters (m³), and work is in Joules (J).

Q5: Can this formula be used for reversible processes?
A: No, this specific formula is for irreversible processes. Reversible work requires integration of P dV over the entire path.