First Law of Thermodynamics and Energy Conservation

First Law of Thermodynamics

Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only converted

Energy Conversion

Converting energy from one form to another

Efficiency

Using energy as efficiently as possible in design

Internal Energy

Energy stored within a system

Kinetic Energy

Energy of motion

Potential Energy

Stored energy due to position or condition

Heat

Energy transfer due to temperature difference

Work

Energy required to move something against an opposing force

System

A defined region with clear boundaries

Closed System

No matter enters or leaves the system

Open System

Matter can cross the boundaries of the system

Isolated System

Neither matter nor energy crosses the boundaries of the system

Adiabatic Process

No heat is added or removed

Steady State

All properties of the system remain constant with respect to time

Equilibrium

No driving force present to cause changes in system properties

Driving Forces

Differences in temperature, pressure, and fugacity

State Property

Property that depends on the state of the system

Heat Capacity

Amount of energy required to raise the temperature of a material

Conserved Quantities

Mass and energy cannot be created or destroyed