Introduction to Thermodynamics
Return to the Thermodynamics Page.
Thermodynamics
is the study of the patterns of energy change.
Thermodynamics refers to energy, and "dynamics" means the patterns of
change. Specifically the study of thermodynamics deals mainly with (A)
energy conversion and (B) the stability of molecules and direction of change.
A Brief Overview of Laws
Atkins: General Chemistry
- First Law:
The internal energy of an isolated system is constant.
- Second Law:
A spontaneous change is accompanied by an increase in the total entropy
of the system and its surroundings.
Atkins: Physical Chemistry
- Zeroth Law:
- First Law:
The energy of an isolated system is constant. 
E = q + w.
It implies that energy can never be created or destroyed, it can only
change its form. For a system E = q+w ; Where (E) represents a change in
internal energy, (q) is the change in thermal energy and (w) is the work
done.
- Second Law:
Whenever a spontaneous event takes place it is accompanied by an increase
in the entropy of the universe.
- Third Law:
For a pure crystalline substance, S = 0 at 0°K.
