Thermodynamic Work

Thermodynamic work associated with a volume change in a system at constant pressure is calculated as the product of the pressure (P) and the change in volume (ΔV). This formula represents the work done by or on the system during expansion or compression. Negative work indicates that work is done by the system on the surroundings, while positive work indicates that work is done on the system by the surroundings. This is applicable under isobaric (constant pressure) processes in thermodynamics, commonly found in piston-cylinder configurations where gas either expands or is compressed.

In practice, thermodynamic work is a critical component in engine design, refrigeration cycles, and various industrial processes where energy transfer due to volume change is involved.