PHY 205 : Thermal Physics 3Units
Course Contents
The foundations of classical thermodynamics including the zeroth law and the definition of temperature. The first law, work, heat and internal energy. Carnot cycles and the second law; entropy and irreversibility. Thermodynamic potentials and the Maxwell relations. Applications. Qualitative discussion of phase transitions ;third law of thermodynamics; ideal and real gases. Elementary kinetic theory of gases including Boltzmann Constant. Maxwell - Boltzmann law of distribution of velocities. Simple applications of the distribution.
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
1.Describe the concepts of temperature heat and internal energy
2.understand the concepts free energy and equilibrium
3 Explain the concepts of work in thermodynamics
Analyze thermodynamic processes such as Carnot cycle.
4.Familiarize with the concepts of thermodynamic systems, properties and processes
5.Design and optimize thermodynamic systems such as heat engines
7.Use thermodynamic equations to model real - life systems.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of these lectures the 200 level students should be able to :
1.Explain the basic foundations of classical thermodynamics
2.Outline and explain the basic applications of thermodynamic laws and their physical basis.
3.Outline and define the various thermodynamic potentials
4.Apply the concepts of thermodynamic potentials to design various heat engines
5.Explain the working principles of a refrigerator
6.Design a cooling system using the concepts of Carnot cycles.
Evaluation
The students will be evaluated with the following instruments :
1.Explian the basic principles of thermodynamics
2 Explain the concert of work in thermodynamics.
3.Describe how you can use the concepts of thermodynamic potentials to predict equilibrium conditions in a system.
4.Discuss the relationship between internal energy, enthalpy and Gibbs free energy for a typical heat engine.
5.Explain how thermal efficiency could be applied to optimize business and reduce waste.
6.Determine the thermodynamic efficiency of a solar panel system if the energy conservation is 20%.
7.Develop a sustainable business model for a company that utilizes waste heat recovery.
Eden please note that this course PHY 205 formally PHY 231. So the course description is that of PHY 231.
- Lecturer : fidelis madu