Thermodynamics and Statistical Thermodynamics

Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics

Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics

The field of thermodynamics is easiest to understand in the context of Newtonian mechanics. Newtonian mechanics describes the effect of forces on objects. Thermodynamics describes the effect of heat transfer on objects. When heat is transferred,the temperature of an object changes.Temperature and heat are also intimately related to energy. A hot gas in a piston has a high pressure and it can do...

Statistical Thermodynamics - Fall 2009

Molecular theory can be considered as a preliminary to statistical physics. While the latter employs a more sophisticated formalism encompassing quantum-mechanical systems, the former operates with a classical ideal gas. Molecular theory studies the relation between the temperature of the gas and the kinetic energy of the molecules, pressure on the walls due to the impact of the molecules, dist...

Thermodynamics and Introductory Statistical Mechanics

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Thermodynamics, Statistical Mechanics and Entropy

The proper definition of thermodynamics and the thermodynamic entropy is discussed in the light of recent developments. The postulates for thermodynamics are examined critically, and some modifications are suggested to allow for the inclusion of long-range forces (within a system), inhomogeneous systems with non-extensive entropy, and systems that can have negative temperatures. Only the thermo...