## Work Equations

$w=-P\Delta V$
and
$w=-\int_{V_{1}}^{V_{2}}PdV=-nRTln\frac{V_{2}}{V_{1}}$

Taylor_Lam_1E
Posts: 9
Joined: Wed Sep 21, 2016 2:58 pm

### Work Equations

Hi. I'm kind of confused between ln and log in work equations. When do you know to use w = -nRT ln (vfinal / vinitial) and when to use w = -2.303nRT log (vfinal/ vinitial)? For example, in the book page 310, 8.27. The question says to calculate work for a gas sample with T = 305 K, P= 1.79 atm, and V = 4.29L for a isothermal, reversible expansion to a final volume of 6.52L. Thanks

Logan 3C
Posts: 22
Joined: Wed Sep 21, 2016 2:57 pm

### Re: Work Equations

As far as I can tell, its best to stick with -nRTln(v2/v1). Thats the equation Lavelle uses the most on tests and quizzes so thats probably the safest bet

Drake_Everlove_1K
Posts: 19
Joined: Sat Sep 24, 2016 3:02 am

### Re: Work Equations

ln and log have to do with whether or not pH is being used (pH is measured in log) so it shouldn't be very necessary to use the log equation, but I don't think it gives a different answer.