Thermodynamics is a branch of science that deals with the relationships and conversions between heat and other forms of energy.
In simple terms, it is the study of how heat energy or thermal energy is converted into other forms of energy and how mechanical work is done.
The following are the key and fundamental concepts used in Engineering thermodynamics.
Basics of Thermodynamics
- Thermodynamics-Definition and scope.
- System surroundings and universe.
- Type of system- open closed and isolated.
- Thermodynamic Equilibrium.
- Thermodynamic Properties, Process and cycles.
- Units and dimensions.
Thermodynamic Laws
- Zeroth law of thermodynamics- concept of temperature and thermal equilibrium.
- First law of thermodynamics-work and heat transfer-Application to closed and open system.
- Second law of thermodynamics-Entropy and irreversibility-Carnot cycle and efficiency-Clausius and kelvin Planck statement.
- Third law of thermodynamics-Absolute zero concept.
Properties of pure substance.
- Phase of matter-solid, liquid, gas.
- Phase diagram and triple point.
- PVT Relations-Ideal and real gas.
- Steam tables.
- Mollier diagram.
Thermodynamic process
- Isothermal process.
- Adiabatic process.
- Isobaric process.
- Isochoric process.
- Polytropic process.
Energy and work
- Types of energy.
- Heat transfer mechanism.
- Work transfer in various process.
Entropy
- Concept of entropy.
- Entropy changes in various process.
- Entropy and second law of thermodynamics.
- T-S Diagram.
Thermodynamic cycles.
- Power cycle.
- Carnot cycle.
- Rankine cycle.
- Brayton cycle.
- Otto cycle
- Diesel cycle.
- Refrigeration and Heat pump cycles.
- Reversed Carnot cycle.
- Vapor compression cycle.
Gas mixtures and Air conditioners.
- Properties of gas mixtures.
- Psychrometrics-Humidity-Dew point and Wet bulb Temperature.
- Air conditioning process.
Applications of Thermodynamics.
- Steam and Gas power plants.
- IC Engines.
- Refrigeration and air conditioning.
- Compressors and turbines.
Advanced topics
- Thermodynamic relations : Maxwel equations and gibbs free energy equations.
- Energy analytics – Efficiency and irreversibility.
- Real gasaes : vANDERWAAL EQUATION OF STATE.
- Heat exchangers.
These above listed topics are important to learn Engineering Thermodynamics. These topics are mostly covered in schools and colleges.