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In this animation N = nR (i.e., k_B = 1). This, then, gives the ideal gas law as PV = NT. We will assume an ideal diatomic gas in the engine. Restart.

The Otto engine cycle is close to the cycle of an internal combustion engine and consists of adiabatic and isochoric processes.

1. Identify which parts of the engine cycle correspond to which processes.
2. Explain why, during the gas intake and smoke exhaust process, there is no net work done. Also explain how heat is released.
3. Calculate the work done during the adiabatic expansion and compression.
4. Find the heat exchanged during the isochoric processes.
5. Determine the efficiency of this engine.

Problem authored by Anne J. Cox.
Script authored by Anne J. Cox and Wolfgang Christian.
Applet authored by CoLoS and modified by Wolfgang Christian.