Work in Reversible and Irreversible Processes

  • A reversible change is more efficient than any irreversible process between the same two states.
  • During a compression the irreversible work done to the system is larger than Wrev because part of Wirr is wasted in overcoming dissipative forces that oppose the compression.
  • Likewise, during an expansion the irreversible work done by the system is less than Wrev because part of Wirr must overcome dissipative forces that oppose the expansion.