Thermodynamics Introduction

Thermodynamics is the branch of physics that deals with the study of heat, energy, and the transformation between them. It explores how energy moves and changes form, such as converting from heat to work. The fundamental laws of thermodynamics govern everything from the engines in our cars to the functioning of the universe.

For example, when you boil water, energy is transferred in the form of heat, causing a change in the water's state, which is a basic thermodynamic process. In real life, thermodynamics can be seen in refrigerators keeping food cold or in power plants generating electricity. By understanding thermodynamics, we can optimize systems for energy efficiency, improving everything from home heating to industrial processes.

Thermodynamics

Thermodynamics is a branch of science that focuses on the study of energy, particularly heat, and its transformation into different forms, such as mechanical work. It involves understanding how energy is transferred between systems and their surroundings and the principles that govern these processes.

What is the Thermodynamic System?

The collection of an extremely large number of atoms or molecules which are confined within certain boundaries (either fixed or moveable) such that it has a certain value of pressure, volume and temperature is called a thermodynamic system.

What are the Surroundings?

Anything outside the thermodynamic system to which energy or matter is exchanged is called its surroundings

Example: Suppose there is a Piston-cylinder arrangement which contains any gas within it, then the gas enclosed in a cylinder fitted with a piston forms the thermodynamic system but the atmospheric air which is outside the cylinder, and the movable piston are surroundings.

Types of Systems

Thermodynamic systems are classified into three major categories

(i) Open system: It exchanges both energy and matter with the surroundings.

(ii) Closed system: It exchanges only energy (not matter) with the surroundings.

(iii) Isolated system: It exchanges neither energy nor matter with the surroundings.

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Solved Examples Based on Introduction to Thermodynamics

Example 1: Heat given to a body which raises its temperature by 1⁰ C is called its

1) water equivalent

2) thermal capacity

3) specific heat

4) temperature gradient.

Solution:

Thermodynamics

It deals with concepts of heat temperature and the interconversion of heat into another form of energy.

wherein

It does not take into account the atomic & molecular constitution of matter

Thermal capacity is defined as the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of a body by 1^oC.

Hence, the answer is the option (2).

Example 2: Any glass tube with an open tap is an example of

1) closed system

2) open system

3) isolated system

4) none of these

Solution:

Open System

When a Thermodynamics system can exchange both masses as well as heat with its surroundings is called an open system.

e.g. Any vessel with an open top will exchange mass and energy with its surroundings.

Hence, the answer is the option 2.

Example 3: When a thermodynamics system can exchange heat but not mass, then the system is

1) Closed system

2) Open system

3) Variable system

4) isolated system

Solution:

Closed System -When a Thermodynamics system can exchange heat but not mass with surroundings.

A conducting vessel with top top-closed will exchange only heat (energy) with the surroundings

Hence, the answer is the option 1.

Summary

Thermodynamics is the study of heat, energy, and their transformation into different forms. It defines the concept of thermodynamic systems, which are collections of particles confined by boundaries, and their interaction with surroundings. Systems can be open, closed, or isolated, depending on their exchange of energy and matter. Understanding these principles helps optimize processes like heating, cooling, and energy conversion in everyday applications.