Thermodynamics is the branch of physics that deals with heat, work, and temperature, and their relation to energy, radiation, and physical properties of matter. The behavior of these quantities is governed by the four laws of thermodynamics which convey a quantitative description using measurable macroscopic physical quantities, but may be explained in terms of microscopic constituents by statistical mechanics.

Zeroth Law: Thermal Equilibrium

If two thermodynamic systems are each in thermal equilibrium with a third, then they are in thermal equilibrium with each other. This law provides the basis for the measurement of temperature.

First Law: Conservation of Energy

Energy can neither be created nor destroyed. It can only change forms. In any process, the total energy of the universe remains the same. For a thermodynamic cycle the net heat supplied to the system equals the net work done by the system.

Second Law: Entropy

The entropy of an isolated system not in equilibrium will tend to increase over time, approaching a maximum value at equilibrium. It expresses the principle of the decay of the universe's usable energy and the universal trend toward disorder.

Third Law: Absolute Zero

As the temperature of a system approaches absolute zero, its entropy approaches a constant minimum.

← back to workshop