What does the equation w = PΔV represent?

The equation ( w = P \Delta V ) represents the work done by a system at constant pressure, where ( w ) is the work, ( P ) is the pressure, and ( \Delta V ) is the change in volume of the system. This relationship is derived from the concept of work in thermodynamics, specifically for processes that occur at constant pressure conditions.

In such scenarios, the work done by the system is calculated by multiplying the constant pressure by the change in volume. When a gas expands, it requires work to be done against the external pressure. If the system contracts, it does work on the surroundings, and the sign of ( w ) may also reflect the direction of work done (with expansion typically resulting in work done by the system being positive).

Understanding this equation is crucial in thermodynamics because it forms the basis for calculating how much energy is transferred in processes involving gas volumes changing under pressure, which is a common occurrence in many physical systems and reactions.

The other options represent different key concepts in thermodynamics. Heat flow into the system refers to the transfer of thermal energy, change in internal energy is associated with the first law of thermodynamics, and change in entropy describes the degree of disorder or