Thermodynamics Laws Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What does the 0th Law of Thermodynamics state?

If two thermodynamic systems are each in thermal equilibrium with a third, then they are in thermal equilibrium with each other. (correct)

Energy cannot be created nor destroyed, it can only change forms.

No system can reach 'absolute zero.'

The entropy of a closed system not in equilibrium increases over time.

What is the 1st Law of Thermodynamics?

The Law of Conservation: Energy cannot be created nor destroyed, it can only change forms.

What does the 2nd Law of Thermodynamics describe?

The entropy of a closed system not in equilibrium increases over time.

What is stated by the 3rd Law of Thermodynamics?

No system can reach 'absolute zero.' Signup and view all the answers

What is entropy?

A measure of the amount of energy unable to do work. Signup and view all the answers

How is work defined in thermodynamics?

A measure of the energy transfer that happens when an object is moved over a distance by an external force in the same direction as the force is being applied. Signup and view all the answers

What is heat?

The form of energy that is transferred between systems. Signup and view all the answers

What is energy?

The ability to do work or cause change. Signup and view all the answers

What is absolute zero?

When the atoms of a substance stop moving or vibrating. Absolute zero is the lowest temperature possible. Signup and view all the answers

What is thermal equilibrium?

When two or more objects are placed in contact, thermal energy is transferred from one to the other until they reach the same temperature. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

The Four Laws of Thermodynamics

0th Law of Thermodynamics: Establishes criteria for thermal equilibrium; if two systems are each in thermal equilibrium with a third system, then they are in thermal equilibrium with each other.
1st Law of Thermodynamics: Known as the Law of Conservation of Energy; energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another.
2nd Law of Thermodynamics: States that the entropy of a closed system always increases over time; thermal energy will eventually equalize in isolated systems, leading to equilibrium.
3rd Law of Thermodynamics: Asserts that no system can achieve absolute zero temperature, where all atomic motion ceases.

Key Concepts

Entropy: Quantifies the amount of energy in a system that is not available to do work, serving as a measure of disorder.
Work: Defined as the energy transfer when an object is moved by an external force over a distance in the direction of that force.
Heat: Represents the energy transferred between systems due to temperature differences.
Energy: The capacity to perform work or induce change, fundamental to all processes in thermodynamics.
Absolute Zero: Represents the theoretical lowest temperature, at which atomic motion stops completely.
Thermal Equilibrium: Occurs when two or more objects in contact exchange thermal energy until they reach the same temperature, indicating no net energy transfer.

Description

Test your knowledge on the Four Laws of Thermodynamics with these insightful flashcards. Each card provides a definition of the fundamental laws that govern energy and entropy in thermodynamic systems. Perfect for students seeking to understand these critical concepts in physics.