Formula for isothermal, reversible equilibrium

[KNguyen_1I]

For isothermal reversible reactions, do we always use the equation w=-nRT ln (v1/v2)?
And so I assume for irreversible equation we can use P delta V?

[Robin Cadd 1D]

Correct! Just remember work = -Pdeltav.

[Brian Tangsombatvisit 1C]

When using the equation -nRTln(V2/V1) for reversible reactions, does n stand for the change in moles after the reaction takes place or does it stand for the total number of moles?

[sarahforman_Dis2I]

When using the equation -nRTln(V2/V1) for reversible reactions, does n stand for the change in moles after the reaction takes place or does it stand for the total number of moles?

I believe n stands for the net amount of moles produced in the reaction (so final amount of moles-initial moles).

[Verity Lai 2K]

Yeah, for reversible expansion, the equation for work is w=-nRTln(v2/v1) and for irreversible expansion, the equation is w=-PexdeltaV. They are both essentially the same, except the irreversible expansion has constant pressure, while reversible expansion has change in pressure.