Question

10.0 L of an ideal diatomic gas at 2.00 atm and 275 K are contained in a cylinder with a piston. The gas first expands isobarically to 20.0 L (step 1). It then cools at constant volume back to 275 K (step 2), and finally contracts isothermally back to 10.0 L (step 3).

a) Show the series of processes on a pV diagram.

b) Calculate the temperature, pressure, and volume of the system at the end of each step in the process. Indicate the p and V values on the pV diagram.

c) Compute the total work done by the gas on the piston during each step of the cycle in L-atm, and the total work done by the gas for one complete cycle.

d) Compute the heat added during each step of the cycle in L-atm, and the net heat added for one cycle. Compare the total work done with the net heat added.

e) Is this an engine or a refrigerator? If it is an engine, what is its efficiency; if it is a refrigerator, what is its coefficient of performance?

Answer 1