Isochoric process

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.

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?

Related terms

Isobaric Process: A thermodynamic process in which pressure remains constant.

Isothermal Process: A thermodynamic process in which temperature remains constant.

$\Delta U = Q - W$: $\Delta U$ represents the change in internal energy, $Q$ represents heat added to the system, and $W$ represents work done by the system.