In an isothermal process, the amount of heat given to a system is equal to

CONCEPT:

Isothermal Process

An isothermal process is a thermodynamic process in which the temperature of a system remains constant.

In such a process, the heat given to the system is used entirely to perform work, as the internal energy of an ideal gas depends only on temperature.

EXPLANATION:

Let's examine the given options:

Option 1: Net increase in internal energy

In an isothermal process, the internal energy of the system remains constant because the temperature does not change. Hence, this option is incorrect.

Option 2: Net work done by the system

In an isothermal process, the heat given to the system is entirely converted into work done by the system. Hence, this option is correct.

Option 3: Net decrease in internal energy

Similar to option 1, the internal energy does not change in an isothermal process. Hence, this option is incorrect.

Option 4: Net change in volume

While the volume may change in an isothermal process, this option does not directly relate to the heat given to the system. Hence, this option is incorrect.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 2: Net work done by the system.