A sample of gas expands from $$V_1$$ to $$V_2$$. In which of the following, the work done will be greatest?

Solution

The work done is greatest for the isobaric process because it corresponds to the largest area under the P-V curve during expansion. Since the pressure remains constant and highest throughout this process, it encloses more area than the decreasing curves of the isothermal and adiabatic processes.