Introduction, Definitions, and Key Concepts

This introduction presents the basic thermodynamic concepts and definitions that arerequired to understand the physical principles that govern the phenomena associated with the transfer of matter, energy, and entropy, i.e., the first and second laws of thermodynamics. These tools provide the framework for the analysis and development of each of the stages constituting an industrial chemical process or bioprocess. 

What is thermodynamics The science that studies energy, in its various manifestations and transformations, and the properties of matter associated with energy. 

What is energy The ability of a system to make changes to itself or to the surrounding environment (operational definition). 

What forms of energy are there There are many energy associated with the structure of matter, energy of motion, energy of position, electromagnetic energy, etc., in addition to so-called energy in transit heat and thermodynamic work. 

Why study thermodynamics As engineers, we want to harness energy for purposes that are useful to humanity. The modification of our environment through energy management allows us to attain common benefits. 

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