In the following p - V diagram the equation of state along the curved path is given by (V - 2)2 = 4ap where a is a constant. The total work done in the closed path is [figure]
- + 13a
- - 1a
- 12a
- - 13a
Answer
(4) - 13a
Solution
On the curve, p = (V - 2)24a.
At A (V = 1) and C (V = 3): p = 14a, so line CA is isobaric at p = 14a.
Process A B C (along the curve, expansion):
W1 = 13 (V - 2)24a dV = 14a [ (V - 2)33 ]13 = 14a 23 = 16a
Process C A (isobaric compression):
W2 = p V = 14a(1 - 3) = - 12a
Wnet = 16a - 12a = - 13a
(The cycle is anticlockwise on the p - V diagram, so the net work is negative.)
Answer: (4)