Module 3: Thermodynamics

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The Laws of Thermodynamics

  1. Two bodies in thermal equilibrium are at the same temperature

  2. Energy can not be created or destroyed

    1. ΔE=q+W
  3. The total entropy of the universe (system and surroundings) must increase in every spontaneous process.

    1. ΔS(total)=ΔS(system)+ΔS(surroundings) > 0
  4. The entropy (s) of a pure, perfectly crystalline compound at T=0K is zero. (no disorder)

    1. S(T=0)=0

Unit Conversions

Celsius to Kelvin

T(K)=T(C)+273.15

SymbolMeaningAdditional
TTemperatureAverage kinetic energy of all particles in a substance
SEntropyThe measure of a system’s thermal energy per unit temperature that is unavailable for doing useful work. As work is obtained from ordered molecular motion, it is also a measure of the molecular disorder of a system.
EEnergy
ΔChange in
qHeat
WWork

Kinetic Theory

All matter is made up of particles that are in constant, random motion (or maybe energy, unclear)

Specific Heat Capacity

The amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of 1kg by 1°C

Q=mcΔT

SymbolMeaning
Δchange in
Qenergy transferred
mmass of water
cspecific heat capacity
TTemperature

Thermal Equilibrium

When two objects are in thermal equilibrium, there is no net flow of heat between them.