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CGP EDU Academic Team
Published on: September 12, 2026
The curves A and B in figure show P–V graphs for an isothermal and an adiabatic process for an ideal gas. The isothermal process is represented by the curve A

Text Solution
Verified by ExpertsThe correct answer is:
A
Step 1: Understanding the Concepts
In thermodynamics, there are different types of processes through which gases can expand or compress. The two processes mentioned are isothermal and adiabatic.
In the figure, Curve A represents the isothermal process where temperature remains constant, making the relationship between pressure and volume inverse. Thus, as volume increases, pressure decreases, following the equation
In thermodynamics, there are different types of processes through which gases can expand or compress. The two processes mentioned are isothermal and adiabatic.
- Isothermal Process (Curve A): This process occurs at constant temperature. For an ideal gas, the equation governing this process is given by the equation of state:
- P imes V = n imes R imes T
Where P = pressure, V = volume, n = number of moles, R = universal gas constant, T = absolute temperature. - Adiabatic Process (Curve B): In this process, there is no heat exchange with the surroundings. The gas does work on the surroundings while expanding or compressing, which affects its internal energy and temperature.
In the figure, Curve A represents the isothermal process where temperature remains constant, making the relationship between pressure and volume inverse. Thus, as volume increases, pressure decreases, following the equation
P = \frac{nRT}{V}.
Step 3: Conclusion
The corresponding curve for an isothermal process in a P-V diagram is hyperbolic (curve A), confirming that we correctly identified the isothermal process. Hence, the correct option is A.
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