Physics A-Level
Work as the area under a p–V graph
What Work as the area under a p–V graph means in Physics A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Work as the area under a p–V graph
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Reference: AQA
For a reversible process, the work done by a gas equals the area under the p–V path, because work is the integral of pressure with respect to volume.
Topics that use Work as the area under a p–V graph
- The p–V diagram (A-level only) (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Adiabatic change
- Graphical integration and estimation techniques
- p–V diagram
- Sign conventions for expansion and compression
- Consistency of units in thermodynamic calculations
- Equilibrium state
- Isothermal change
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