ISOTHERMAL PROCESS Meaning and
Definition
-
An isothermal process refers to a thermodynamic process in physics and chemistry where the temperature of a system remains constant or uniform throughout the entire process. In other words, it is a process in which the system's temperature does not change, thereby maintaining thermal equilibrium.
During an isothermal process, the heat transfer between the system and its surroundings occurs in such a manner that the temperature of the system remains the same. This is achieved by adjusting the pressure and volume of the system, allowing for the exchange of heat but ensuring an equal temperature distribution.
Isothermal processes are often described as occurring very slowly, allowing for sufficient time for thermal equilibrium to be maintained. They can be accomplished by using techniques such as adding or removing heat to adjust the temperature, as well as changing the volume or pressure of the system.
Common examples of isothermal processes include ideal gas expansions or compressions taking place in a system that is perfectly insulated or connected to a heat reservoir so that the temperature remains constant. Isotherms, which are the lines connecting points of equal temperature on a thermodynamic graph, are used to represent isothermal processes.
In summary, an isothermal process is a thermodynamic process in which the temperature of a system remains constant, achieved by careful adjustment of the pressure, volume, or heat.
Etymology of ISOTHERMAL PROCESS
The word isothermal is derived from two Greek roots: iso, meaning equal, and thermos, meaning heat. In the context of thermodynamics, an isothermal process refers to a system in which the temperature remains constant throughout, hence the term isothermal.
