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Isochor

Definition

... a process at constant volume, denoted by a vertical line on a pV diagram and a curve on a Ts diagram.

Where it occurs.

In the theoretical Otto Cycle, heat is added and rejected at constant volume. In the theoretical Diesel Cycle, heat is rejected at constant volume. Constant volume heating/ cooling might also apply to fluid storage tanks.

Special features

If a the volume of a system is fixed, then the system can do no work.

How to draw it

Locate the POI and press the isochor button.

The theory

At (T,s) for a given POI, thepressure follows from, rearrangement and integration of the Gibbs Equation. $$ p = 1.013 \, exp( s/R) (T/273.)^{(\gamma/(\gamma-1)} $$ From the Ideal Gas Law, specific volume follows $$ v = V/m = RT/p $$ The calculations of ideal gas internal energy and enthalpy are explained in conjunction with the point of interest.

Exercises

Click on the graph to get a POI and plot an isochor through it. Click along the isochor to set new POIs and note how temperature increases with pressure.

Links

... to follow.