Basics of Thermodynamics & Laws
Name: Vandan patel
Roll No.: 23BCH050
Batch: B3
Introduction
Thermodynamics is the branch of physics that focuses on the study of energy, its transformations, and its
interactions with matter. It provides the scientific principles that explain how energy moves through
systems and how it influences physical and chemical processes. The discipline is foundational for multiple
scientific fields, including chemistry, physics, and engineering.
The study of thermodynamics centers around systems, which are classified as open, closed, or isolated
depending on their ability to exchange matter and energy with their surroundings. These classifications
help scientists and engineers analyze how energy flows and transforms in different contexts.
Core Concepts of Thermodynamics
1. System and Surroundings
• A system refers to the part of the universe under study, while the surroundings include everything
outside the system.
• The boundary between the system and surroundings defines the extent of energy and matter interactions.
2. Types of Systems
• Open System: Exchanges both energy and matter with its surroundings (e.g., boiling water in an open
pot).
• Closed System: Exchanges energy but not matter (e.g., a sealed steam turbine).
• Isolated System: Neither energy nor matter is exchanged (e.g., an insulated flask).
3. Properties of Thermodynamics
• State Properties: Depend only on the state of the system (e.g., temperature, pressure).
• Path Functions: Depend on the path taken during the process (e.g., work, heat).
Laws of Thermodynamics
1. Zeroth Law of Thermodynamics
• Establishes the concept of temperature and thermal equilibrium.
• If two systems are in equilibrium with a third, they are in equilibrium with each other.
2. First Law of Thermodynamics
• Known as the Law of Energy Conservation.
• Energy cannot be created or destroyed; it can only be transformed.
• Mathematical Expression:
Where is the change in internal energy, is heat added, and is work done.
3. Second Law of Thermodynamics
• Defines entropy, a measure of disorder or randomness.
• States that natural processes tend to move towards increasing entropy.
• Demonstrates the irreversibility of processes like heat flow.
4. Third Law of Thermodynamics
• States that as a system approaches absolute zero temperature, its entropy approaches a constant
minimum.
Applications of Thermodynamics
Thermodynamics plays a pivotal role in science and technology, with applications across various domains:
1. Engineering: Designing efficient engines, turbines, and refrigeration systems.
2. Chemistry: Understanding reaction energetics and phase changes.
3. Energy Management: Developing sustainable energy systems.
4. Daily Life: Explaining phenomena like cooking, cooling, and heating.
Conclusion
Thermodynamics is an essential discipline that provides a structured understanding of energy and its
transformations. Its laws offer insights into the functioning of natural and engineered systems, laying the
groundwork for technological advancements. By mastering thermodynamics, scientists and engineers can
design innovative solutions to tackle global challenges in energy, sustainability, and efficiency.
