Isothermal expansions

[Seohyun Park 1L]

Besides by looking at the graph of reversible v. irreversible expansions and seeing that the area of work done is greater for reversible expansions, what explains the fact (more theoretical explanation) that reversible expansions do more work than irreversible expansions?

[Chem_Mod]

Reversible expansions work against incrementally smaller external pressures rather than a constant smaller pressure, and thus do more work over a longer period of time.