Invitation to Thermodynamics
Thermodynamics is a branch of science that concerned with the
macroscopic (in some sense measurable) properties of systems on which
observations are made, independent of their microscopic composition.
Laws of thermodynamics are applicable over extremely wide range of
scientific disciplines – Engineering (mechanical, chemical . . .), Chemistry,
Biology, classical and quantum Physics, Cosmology, Atmospheric
sciences, Information theory and so on.
It is an axiomatic approach, pretty much like Euclid’s geometry.
Begin with some definitions –
System – object of interest on which observations are carried out. We
can measure relevant quantities like pressure, temperature, modulii of
elasticity, magnetism etc.
Surroundings – any other things that are not observed or under
measurement. System may interact with or remain isolated from the
surroundings.
Boundary – A wall that separates system from the surroundings.
Depending on properties of wall, it may or may not allow system to
interact with the surroundings.
