Knowledge and Skills Statement
Science concepts. The student understands the energy changes that occur in chemical reactions.
Further Explanation
The zeroth law of thermodynamics defines thermal equilibrium and allows for a definition of temperature: If two systems are each in thermal equilibrium with a third system, then they are in thermal equilibrium with each other.
The first law of thermodynamics states that when energy flows into or out of a system, it follows the law of conservation of energy.
The second law of thermodynamics describes the entropy in natural thermodynamic processes. When systems interact, the combined entropy of the systems does not decrease. Heat will not spontaneously pass from a colder body to a warmer body.
The third law of thermodynamics states that a system's entropy approaches a constant value as the temperature approaches absolute zero. With the exception of non-crystalline solids (glasses), the entropy of a system at absolute zero is typically close to zero.
Supporting Information
Research
Butler, Howard W. "Heat, Work and the First Law: from Savery at the Mines to Joule's Propeller, the Understanding of Thermodynamics Proceeded Step by Thoughtful Step." Mechanical Engineering-CIME 130, no. 3 (2008): 40-43
Summary: Thermodynamics is an engineering science that evolved piecemeal over many years and with contributions from many investigators. This article traces the historical development of thermodynamics.
Research
de Hemptinn, Jean-Charles, Georgios M. Kontogeorgis, Ralf Dohrn, Ioannis G. Economou, Antoon ten Kate, Susanna Kuitunen, Ljudmila Fele Žilnik, Maria Grazia De Angelis, and Velisa Vesovic. "A View on the Future of Applied Thermodynamics." Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research 61, no. 39 (2022):14664–14680. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.iecr.2c01906
Summary: Thermodynamics is often considered complex and challenging, perhaps because it is often taught within a rigid mathematical framework, without highlighting the extensive range of applications and the tools that it offers for understanding and elaborating a sustainable future. This manuscript aims not only at promoting research but also at encouraging highly trained professionals to engage in education, laboratory work, fundamental developments, and/or model validation.