Chapter 2, Problem 2A.10P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

An expression for an isothermal reversible expansion of a van der Waals gas in reduced variables has to be stated and a definition of reduced work that makes the overall expression independent of the identity of the gas has to be defined.  Also, the work of isothermal reversible expansion along the critical isotherm from $V_{\text{c}}$ to $x{V}_{\text{c}}$ has to be calculated.

Concept introduction:

In thermodynamics, work is defined as the form of mechanical energy that is transferred from system to another.  Due to the organized motion of atoms, work refers to the energy transfer.  An expression for the work done in an isothermal reversible expansion is,

  $dw=-pdV$