Two moles of an ideal gas undergo a single-stage isothermal compression from an initial volume of 8 — Thermodynamics and Thermochemistry Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

First, determine the final volume using Boyle's Law ($P_1V_1 = P_2V_2$): $2 \times 8 = 20 \times V_2$, rendering $V_2 = 0.8$ L. The single-stage compression against a constant external pressure characterizes an irreversible path. $w = -P_{ext}(V_2 - V_1) = -20 \times (0.8 - 8) = -20 \times (-7.2) = 144$ bar-L.