Thermodynamics is literally a field concerned with the mechanical action of heat. It was initially applied to the calculation of the efficiency of heat engines. Then it was generalized to determine the feasibility or spontaneity of a given transformation, physical of chemical. Thermodynamics, like all branches of the physical sciences relies on a precise terminology which must be mastered. This section defines systems, states, state functions and processes.
In this section we examine the various types of energy and how the energy of a system may be altered by doing work or transferring heat. We finish by introducing the first law of thermodynamics.
To prepare for this lecture, we suggest that you read sections 7-1 and 7-2 of Oxtoby.
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