A reversible heat engine has the PV graph shown. The work done during the entire cycle is
A) zero.
B) 2.5 kJ.
C) 6.0 kJ.
D) 2.0 kJ.
E) 5.0 kJ.

Question

A reversible heat engine has the PV graph shown. The work done during the entire cycle is
A) zero. 
B) 2.5 kJ. 
C) 6.0 kJ. 
D) 2.0 kJ. 
E) 5.0 kJ.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The area enclosed by the PV graph represents the work done by the engine. Since the graph forms a rectangle with dimensions of 2 L and 1.25 atm, the area of the graph is:
A = (2 L)(1.25 atm) = 2.5 kJ
Therefore, the work done during the entire cycle is 2.5 kJ. Choice B is the correct answer.

A Reversible Heat Engine Has the PV Graph Shown