Question

Choose the correct process for the curves shown in the diagram.

• A. A - isobaric, B - isochoric, C - adiabatic
• B. A - isochoric, B - adiabatic, C - isobaric
• C. A - isobaric, B - adiabatic, C - isochoric
• D. A - adiabatic, B - isobaric, C - isochoric

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

A - isobaric, B - isochoric, C - adiabatic

Answer 2

• Curve A (Horizontal line): In a P-V diagram, a horizontal line indicates that the pressure (P) remains constant while the volume (V) changes. A process where pressure is constant is called an isobaric process.

• Curve B (Vertical line): In a P-V diagram, a vertical line indicates that the volume (V) remains constant while the pressure (P) changes. A process where volume is constant is called an isochoric process.

• Curve C (Steep curve): This curve represents a process where both pressure and volume change. It's a typical curve for an expansion or compression. Among isothermal (PV = constant) and adiabatic (PV^γ = constant) processes, the adiabatic curve is steeper than the isothermal curve at any given point on a P-V diagram because γ > 1. The curve C shows a decrease in pressure and an increase in volume, characteristic of an expansion. Given the options and the visual representation, this curve is best described as an adiabatic process.