11. THERMODYNAMICS
Thermodynamics examines the principles governing heat and energy transfer. It defines key concepts such as temperature, internal energy, and work, emphasizing the distinctions between heat and energy. Central to this field are the laws of thermodynamics, including the Zeroth, First, and Second Laws, which guide the behavior of thermal systems and the efficiency of heat engines.
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What we have learnt
- The Zeroth Law establishes the foundation of temperature and thermal equilibrium.
- Internal energy is a state variable dependent on the system's macroscopic properties.
- The First Law of Thermodynamics is a conservation principle relating heat, work, and internal energy.
Key Concepts
- -- Zeroth Law of Thermodynamics
- States that two systems in thermal equilibrium with a third are in thermal equilibrium with each other, leading to the concept of temperature.
- -- First Law of Thermodynamics
- A conservation principle stating that the change in internal energy of a system is equal to the heat added to the system minus the work done by the system.
- -- Specific Heat Capacity
- The amount of heat required to change a unit mass of a substance's temperature by one degree Celsius.
- -- Reversible Process
- An idealized process where a system can return to its original state with no net change to the surroundings.
- -- Carnot Engine
- An ideal reversible engine operating between two heat reservoirs that sets the maximum theoretical efficiency for heat engines.
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