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Understand the fundamentals of the laws of thermodynamics Thermodynamics is all about how energy is used for heat and work, serving as a cornerstone of science and engineering.
Thermodynamics For Dummies, 2nd Edition simplifies this subject, making it easier for you to excel in your thermodynamics course with example problems and step-by-step guidance to prepare you for a career in an engineering or scientific field. This book not only covers thermodynamics at the macroscale - examining the world around us - but also delves into the molecular foundations that underpin all systems.
Thermodynamics For Dummies, 2nd Edition provides a comprehensive and engaging introduction to thermodynamics.
Inside... - Apply key laws to real world systems
- Know how key cycles work including Carnot, Brayton, and beyond
- Understand combustion reactions and non-reacting gas mixtures
- Discover renewable energy, power generation, and storage technologies
- Learn about important contributors in this field
List of contents
Introduction 1
Part 1: Getting Started with Thermodynamics 7 Chapter 1: Thermodynamics in Everyday Life 9
Chapter 2: Laying the Foundation of Thermodynamics 17
Chapter 3: Working with Phases and Properties of Substances 43
Chapter 4: The Thermodynamic Duo: Work and Heat 61
Part 2: Employing the Laws of Thermodynamics 75 Chapter 5: Using the First Law in Closed Systems 77
Chapter 6: Using the First Law in Open Systems 91
Chapter 7: Governing Heat Engines and Refrigerators with the Second Law 109
Chapter 8: The Second Law Predicts the Demise of the Universe 123
Chapter 9: Analyzing Systems by Applying the Second Law 145
Part 3: Planes, Trains, and Automobiles: Making Heat Work for You 161 Chapter 10: Working with Carnot and Brayton Cycles 163
Chapter 11: Working with Otto and Diesel Cycles 191
Chapter 12: Power up with Rankine Cycles 211
Chapter 13: Cooling Off with Refrigeration Cycles 233
Chapter 14: Thermodynamics of Renewable Energy Systems 255
Part 4: Handling Thermodynamic Relationships, Reactions, and Mixtures. 275 Chapter 15: Understanding the Behavior of Real Gases 277
Chapter 16: Mixing Non-Reacting Gases 289
Chapter 17: Burning Up with Combustion 315
Part 5: The Part of Tens 337 Chapter 18: Ten Famous Names in Thermodynamics 339
Chapter 19: Ten More Cycles of Note 345
Appendix A: Thermodynamic Property Tables 355
Index 367
About the author
Michael Pauken, PhD, is a principal mechanical engineer at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. He specializes in spacecraft thermal control systems and interplanetary exploration. He was previously a lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at the California Institute of Technology, teaching courses in thermodynamics and heat transfer.
