Basics

Question 1

What is an irreversible process?

Answer 1

• Initial and final states are in thermodynamic equilibrium, but everything in between is not
• Intermediate steps cannot be represented as a path on a thermodynamic surface, because intermediate points are not in equilibrium

Question 2

What is a reversible process?

Answer 2

• Proceeds through a continuous series of thermodynamic states
• Can be shown as a path on an equation-of-state surface
• Infinite number of reversible paths can be defined between two thermodynamic states

Question 3

What are some examples of state functions in thermodynamics

Answer 3

• Volume, temperature, pressure, internal energy