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Which of the following is not a reversible process ?

Answer & Solution
Correct Answer: Option C
Since the entropy of mixing is positive we can say the mixing process or solution formation process is an irreversible process.
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Atanu Chatterjee
Atanu Chatterjee 1 year ago
Let's carefully analyze each option to determine which process is not reversible:

🔹 A. Expansion of an ideal gas against constant pressure
This involves expansion against a finite external pressure.

For a process to be reversible, the driving force (like pressure difference) must be infinitesimally small.

Expansion against constant pressure is a classic example of an irreversible process.

✅ This is NOT a reversible process.

🔹 B. Atmospheric pressure vaporisation of water at 100°C
At 100°C and 1 atm, water boils at equilibrium.

If done infinitely slowly, this can be reversible (e.g., in a reversible Carnot engine).
✅ This can be reversible.

🔹 C. Solution of NaCl in water at 50°C
The dissolution of NaCl can be modeled as a reversible process under ideal and equilibrium conditions.
✅ This can be reversible.

🔹 D. None of these
This would be correct only if all options were reversible.

But A is definitely not reversible.

✅ Correct answer: A. Expansion of an ideal gas against constant pressure