Final answer:
The work done on a gas that expands from 0.055 to 1.403 liters against an external pressure of 1.02 atm is calculated using the formula W = -P∆V, which yields approximately -139.14246 J. The given answers did not match this calculation, suggesting a possible need to recheck the conversion factors and calculations provided.
Step-by-step explanation:
To calculate the work done by a gas during an expansion, we can use the formula W = -P∆V, where W is work, P is the external pressure, and ∆V is the change in volume. Given that the external pressure is 1.02 atm and the volume change (∆V) is 1.403 L - 0.055 L = 1.348 L. Converting 1.02 atm to joules using the conversion factor 1 atm·L = 101.325 J, we can determine the joules of work done.
To calculate the work done: W = -(1.02 atm) × (1.348 L) × (101.325 J/atm·L) = -139.14246 J (since work done by gas on the surroundings is considered negative in thermodynamics, but since the question asks for the absolute amount, it will be 139.14246 J). However, this answer does not match any of the given options, so we need to double-check the calculation.