Question

question 15 (4 points)
a reversible process is one that ________.

a) can be reversed with no net change in either system or surroundings
b) happens spontaneously
c) is spontaneous in both directions
d) must be carried out at low temperature

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Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option based on the definition of a reversible process in thermodynamics:

• Option a: A reversible process is defined as one that can be reversed such that there is no net change in either the system or the surroundings. This matches the thermodynamic definition.
• Option b: Spontaneous processes are irreversible (they proceed in one direction naturally), so a reversible process does not happen spontaneously. Eliminate b.
• Option c: A process cannot be spontaneous in both directions simultaneously (due to the second law of thermodynamics; if a process is spontaneous in one direction, the reverse is non - spontaneous). Eliminate c.
• Option d: Reversible processes are not defined by the temperature at which they are carried out. They can occur at any temperature (e.g., isothermal reversible processes can occur at various temperatures). Eliminate d.

Answer:

a) can be reversed with no net change in either system or surroundings