Question

Which of the following thermodynamic process is fastest:
1. Adiabatic
2. Isothermal
3. Isobaric
4. Isochoric

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 1 : Adiabatic

CONCEPT:

Isochoric process:

• When a thermodynamic process undergoes a physical change in such a way that its volume remains constant, then the change is known as the isochoric process.

⇒ V = constant

Isobaric process:

• When a thermodynamic process undergoes a physical change in such a way that its pressure remains constant, then the change is known as the isobaric process.

⇒ P = constant

Isothermal process:

• When a thermodynamic system undergoes a physical change in such a way that its temperature remains constant, then the change is known as the isothermal process.

⇒ T = constant

Adiabatic process:

• When a thermodynamic system undergoes a change in such a way that no exchange of heat takes place between the system and surroundings, the process is known as the adiabatic process.

⇒ PVγ = constant

EXPLANATION:

Essential conditions for the adiabatic process:

1. There should not be any exchange of heat between the system and its surroundings. All walls of the container and the piston must be perfectly insulating.
2. The system should be compressed or allowed to expand suddenly so that there is no time for the exchange of heat between the system and its surroundings. Hence, option 1 is correct.

Essential conditions for the isothermal process:

1. The temperature should remain constant.
2. The process must be carried out very slowly so that there is ample time for the system and the environment to exchange heat to maintain equilibrium.