Step 1: Concept
An isothermal process is a thermodynamic process that occurs at a constant temperature. In such processes, the system exchanges heat with its surroundings to maintain a constant temperature.
Step 2: Meaning
The term "isothermal" comes from the Greek words "iso," meaning equal or same, and "thermos," meaning heat. Thus, an isothermal process maintains a uniform temperature throughout the process.
Step 3: Analysis
In an isothermal process:
The temperature remains unchanged.
Heat is exchanged with the surroundings to keep the internal energy constant since $dU = 0$ for an ideal gas in such processes (where $dU = nC_v dT$, and $dT = 0$).
The other options are analyzed as follows:
Pressure: Does not necessarily remain constant. It can change depending on volume changes.
Volume: Can vary, but the process is defined by maintaining a constant temperature.
Heat: The system exchanges heat with its surroundings to maintain the temperature constant.
Therefore, in an isothermal process, only the temperature remains constant.
Step 4: Conclusion
The correct answer is A) Temperature as it is the defining characteristic of an isothermal process.
Final Answer: (A)