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Sign for compression vs expansion
Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 1:46 am
by Kassandra Molina 2B
When using the equation for w=-P
is it true that for compression the answer will be positive and for expansion it will be negative?
Re: Sign for compression vs expansion
Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 1:49 am
by GabrielGarciaDiscussion1i
Yes, compression is a negative delta V, which multiplied by negative P, gives you a positive value for work.
Same methodology for expansion, positive delta V.
Re: Sign for compression vs expansion
Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 1:52 am
by diangelosoriano
To determine the sign, think about if the work is done to the system or by the system. W is positive if work is done by the system, and negative if work is done on the system
Re: Sign for compression vs expansion
Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 2:00 am
by Angel Gomez 1K
Yes, that is correct. You can assume pressure is 1 atm and then plug in values for delta V to check. If you compress something, Vf-Vi will be negative, so the two negative signs will combine to make a positive value. Delta V is positive for expansion, so the value will end up being negative.
Re: Sign for compression vs expansion
Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 11:19 am
by melissa carey 1f
W=-P∆V. ∆V = V_f - V_i.