PV Diagrams

Definition

PV diagrams are graphical representations that show how pressure and volume change for a given gas during different processes. They help visualize thermodynamic processes and analyze work done on or by gases.

Related terms

Isothermal Process:

A thermodynamic process that occurs at a constant temperature.

Adiabatic Process:

A thermodynamic process where no heat is exchanged between the system and its surroundings.

Carnot Cycle:

An idealized thermodynamic cycle consisting of four reversible processes used to analyze the efficiency of heat engines.