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Problem 2 - Olympiad

A thermodynamic cycle consists of an isothermal expansion, followed by an isobaric compression, and then an isochoric process. The net work done during the cycle is 500 J. Which process contributes the most to the work output?

Correct: A

In an isothermal process, work done is $W = nRT \ln(V_2/V_1)$, which can be significantly larger than isobaric work ($W = P \Delta V$). The isochoric process does no work. Since the net work is positive and dominated by isothermal expansion, this step contributes the most.