Chemical Thermodynamics

Chapter 1

Introduction

1.a.  Scope and Limitations of Thermodynamics

Thermodynamics (Gk: heat power) also called energetics is essentially the study of (i) the relationship between heat and other forms of energy, (ii) the interconversion of one form of energy into another and (iii) the efficiency of and the amount work obtainable from such conversions. It is based on a few fundamental generalisations. The zeroth, first and second laws of thermodynamics are the result of a number of experiments and observations by engineers, physicists, chemists and others over many years. Yet another law, the third law of thermodynamics can be considered to be an extension of the second law.

An engineer may be interested in the combustion of a fuel and energy ...