Learning Objectives

• Understand the fundamental laws of thermodynamics.
• Learn how thermodynamic systems work and their real-world applications.
• Analyze processes involving energy, heat, and work.

Language Goals

• Learn and use vocabulary related to thermodynamics.
• Practice explaining thermodynamic processes in English.
• Improve comprehension of scientific texts about thermodynamics.

Terminology

Glossary

Thermodynamics: The branch of physics that deals with the relationships between heat, work, and energy.

Entropy: A measure of disorder or randomness in a system.

System: A defined region of space being studied.

Work: Energy transferred by a force acting through a distance.

Theory

Thermodynamics is the study of energy, heat, and work in a defined *system*. It is governed by the following laws:

1. First Law: Energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or transformed. (Also known as the law of conservation of energy.)
2. Second Law: The total entropy of an isolated system can never decrease over time.
3. Third Law: As the temperature of a system approaches absolute zero, the entropy approaches a constant value.

For example, when a gas expands, its particles gain -heat- energy, which increases their kinetic energy. This is a central concept of the first law of thermodynamics.

Exercises on Memorization

1. Define «entropy» in your own words.
2. Explain the first law of thermodynamics with an example.
3. Match the following terms to their definitions:
   • Heat
   • Work
   • System
   • Entropy

Video Tutorial

Examples

Example: Calculate the work done by a gas that expands from 1 L to 3 L at a constant pressure of 2 atm.

Investigation Task

Use the simulation below to explore heat transfer and entropy changes:

Collaborative Activity

In pairs or groups, discuss the implications of the second law of thermodynamics on energy efficiency in engines. Propose strategies to reduce energy loss in practical systems.

Additional Resources

Visit Save My Exams for more practice questions and resources on thermodynamics.

Reflection

Reflect on today’s lesson by answering the following:

• What is one key principle of thermodynamics you learned today?
• What challenges did you face understanding these concepts?
• How can thermodynamics be applied to everyday life?