Reversible and Irreversible Expansion/Compression Processes: Interactive Simulation
This simulation runs in your browser. Try to predict the behavior when a parameter changes before using a slider to change that parameter. A screencast below explains how to use this simulation.
Simulation: Reversible and Irreversible Expansion or Compression Work
Try to answer these questions before determining the answer with the simulation. We suggest that you write down the reasons for your answers.
- Starting from the same initial conditions, which process will have a larger final volume after compression to the same final pressure? reversible adiabatic or reversible isothermal? Why?
- Starting from the same initial conditions, which process will have a larger volume after expansion to the same final pressure? reversible adiabatic or reversible isothermal? Why?