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Isentropic

Definition

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

Where it occurs.

In the theoretical Carnot, Otto and Diesel Cycles, working gas is compressed or expanded isentropically.

Special features

There is no heat addition (adiabatic) and no gas friction. An isentropic process is said to be "reversible".

How to draw it

Locate the POI and press the isentropic button.

The theory

The isentropic relationship follows $$ p V^{\gamma}= constant $$ One can use the Ideal Gas Law to eliminate pressure with \( p \propto T/V \) or to eliminate volume with \( V \propto T/p \). Then, noting the power rule for logarithms, $$ p \propto T^{\gamma/(\gamma-1)} $$ $$ T \propto V^{\gamma-1} $$

The calculations of ideal gas internal energy, enthalpy and entropy are explained in conjunction with the point of interest.

The proof of the isentropic relationship follows. Assume an ideal gas and a quasi-equilibrium or reversible process. Consider a differentially small movement of the piston in a piston-cylinder. Take a differential form of the Non Flow Energy Equation , noting that there is no heat transfer. $$ dU = dQ + dW = dW $$ Using IUPAC 1992 convention the work definition is ,

$$ dW = - p dV $$ For an Ideal Gas obtain the change in internal energy from the specific heat capacity at constant volume. Substitute into this the Ideal Gas Law $$ dU = m c_v dT = m c_v d (\frac{pV}{mR}) = \frac {c_v}{R} d(pV) = \frac{1}{\gamma-1} (pdV + Vdp) $$

where \( \gamma = c_p/c_v \) is the ratio of heat capacities and c_p = c_v + R . Substitute expressions for \( dU \) and \(dW\) into the reduced form of the NFEE

$$ - p dV = \frac{1}{\gamma-1} (pdV + Vdp) $$ Separate variables (variables are p and V) to obtain $$ -\gamma p dV = V dp $$ $$ \gamma \frac{dV}{V} = - \frac{dp}{p} $$ Integrate from state 1 to current (c) pressure and volume $$ \gamma \int_1^c \frac{dV}{V} = - \int_1^c \frac{dp}{p} $$ $$ \gamma ln (\frac{V}{V_1}= -ln(\frac{p}{p_1}) $$ Exploitiong the Power Rule for Logarithms and rearranging we find, $$ p V^{\gamma} = p_1 V_1 ^{\gamma} = constant $$ This can be integrated to obtain the work of expansion (or compression). $$ W_{1,2} = - \int_1^2 p dV = -p_1 V_1 ^{\gamma} \int_1^2 \frac {1}{V^{\gamma}} dV $$ Under development, more to follow.

Exercises

Click on the graph to get a POI and plot an isentropic curve through it. Click along the curve to set new POIs and note that compression causes increased temperature whereas expansion caused a reduced temperature.

Links

... to follow.