An isobaric process is a thermodynamic process in which the pressure remains constant throughout the process.
- “Iso” means equal or constant.
- “Baric” refers to pressure.
So, in an isobaric process, the system changes its volume and/or temperature while the pressure stays the same.
Key points:
- Pressure PP is constant.
- The volume VV can change.
- The temperature TT can change.
- Work is done by or on the system because volume changes.
- The heat added or removed changes the internal energy and does work.
Example:
Heating a gas in a piston-cylinder where the piston can move freely so pressure stays constant is an isobaric process.