College Physics III – Thermodynamics, Electricity, and Magnetism

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Isochoric process

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College Physics III – Thermodynamics, Electricity, and Magnetism

Definition

An isochoric process is a thermodynamic process in which the volume remains constant. Since the volume does not change, no work is done by or on the system during this process.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. In an isochoric process, $\Delta V = 0$, meaning the volume does not change.
  2. No work is done in an isochoric process because $W = P \Delta V$ and $\Delta V = 0$.
  3. The change in internal energy ($\Delta U$) equals the heat added to or removed from the system ($Q$), i.e., $\Delta U = Q$.
  4. An example of an isochoric process is heating gas in a sealed, rigid container.
  5. Isochoric processes are often depicted as vertical lines on a P-V (Pressure-Volume) diagram.

Review Questions

  • What remains constant during an isochoric process?
  • Why is no work done during an isochoric process?
  • How can you represent an isochoric process on a P-V diagram?
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