How much work in J is required to expand the volume of a pum

How much work (in J) is required to expand the volume of a pump from 0.0 L to 2.7 L against an external pressure of 1.2 atm ?

Solution

The formula for how much work is done can be given as:

W = -P V

Where W is the work required

P is the external pressure = 1.2 atm

V is the change in volume (in Litres) = final volume - initial volume = 2.7L - 0.0 L = 2.7 L

Therefore W = - (1.2)(2.7) = - (3.24) L. atm

In Jouls W = - (3.24) * (101.33) J (where 1J=101.33 L. atm)

W = - 328.309 J