Final Answer:
A system that performs work on the surroundings without any heat exchange (q = 0) undergoes an adiabatic process.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a system performs work on its surroundings without any heat transfer, it indicates that the heat exchanged (q) is zero. This scenario aligns with an adiabatic process, characterized by the absence of heat exchange between the system and its surroundings. In thermodynamics, an adiabatic process involves a change in the system's internal energy due solely to work done on or by the system.
In this case, the system's energy change is entirely due to work, and the absence of heat transfer distinguishes it as an adiabatic process. Such processes can occur rapidly or slowly, depending on the conditions, but the crucial aspect is the absence of heat exchange during the work done by or on the system.
This scenario could occur in various situations, such as a perfectly insulated container or a system undergoing quick, reversible compression or expansion without allowing time for heat transfer to occur.