If W=-20 the negative sign indicates that the

Options

A. Expanding systen gains work energy and does work on the sorroundings
B. Expanding systen loses work energy and does work on the sorroundings
C. Expanding systen gains work energy and does work on the system.
D. Expanding systen loses work energy and does work on the system.

Answer

To solve the question "If W = -20, the negative sign indicates that the...", we need to analyze the implications of the negative work done in thermodynamics.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Work Done (W)**:
- In thermodynamics, work done by a system on its surroundings is considered positive, while work done on the system by its surroundings is considered negative.

2. **Given Value**:
- Here, we have W = -20. The negative sign indicates that the work is done on the system rather than by the system.

3. **Interpreting the Negative Sign**:
- A negative work value (W < 0) suggests that the system is undergoing compression. This means that the surroundings are doing work on the system, causing it to compress.

4. **Expansion vs. Compression**:
- If the work done is negative (as in this case), it implies that the system is not expanding but rather compressing. In contrast, if the work were positive, it would indicate that the system is expanding and doing work on the surroundings.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the negative sign in W = -20 indicates that the system is being compressed, and work is being done on the system by the surroundings.

### Final Answer:
The negative sign indicates that the system is being compressed (work is done on the system).

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