Chapter 3, Problem 3A.2P

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The volume of the gas when the expansion is complete has to be calculated.

Concept introduction: An isothermal expansion is carried out in such a way that the temperature remains constant throughout the process while the volume expands from an initial value to a final value and pressure reduces from an initial value to a final value.  In an irreversible process, the value of $p_{\text{ext}}\ne p_{\text{int}}$ and cannot be integrated.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The work done when the gas expands has to be calculated.

Concept introduction: An isothermal expansion is carried out in such a way that the temperature remains constant throughout the process while the volume expands from an initial value to a final value and pressure reduces from an initial value to a final value.  In an irreversible process the value of $p_{\text{ext}}\ne p_{\text{int}}$ and cannot be integrated.

(c)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The heat absorbed by the system and the value of  $\Delta S_{\text{total}}$ has to be calculated.

Concept introduction: An isothermal expansion is carried out in such a way that the temperature remains constant throughout the process while the volume expands from an initial value to a final value and pressure reduces from an initial value to a final value.  In an irreversible process the value of $p_{\text{ext}}\ne p_{\text{int}}$ and cannot be integrated.