Question

For any thermodynamic process, the work done by the system depends

• A. only on intial state of the system.
• B. both on initial and final state of the system.
• C. on the initial state and final state and on the path along which the change takes place.
• D. only on intermediate state.

Hint:

Work is a path function, so it depends on the path as well as on the end states.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
Work done by a system is \(W=\int P\,dV\), the area under the P-V curve.

Step 2: Path dependence
Different paths between the same initial and final states enclose different areas, so the work differs.

Step 3: Conclusion
Work depends on the initial state, the final state and the path taken.

Final Answer:
Work depends on both end states and on the path. \[ \boxed{\text{(C) }\text{on the initial state and final state and on the path along which the change takes place}} \]