Thermal Physics and Kinetic Theory · Autumn Term

The First Law of Thermodynamics

The conservation of energy in thermal systems, involving work done, heat added, and internal energy.

Key Questions

  1. 1How does the first law of thermodynamics constrain the design of heat engines?
  2. 2What is the difference between an isothermal and an adiabatic expansion in terms of work done?
  3. 3How would an engineer apply these cycles to improve the efficiency of a refrigerator?

National Curriculum Attainment Targets

A-Level: Physics - Thermal PhysicsA-Level: Physics - Thermodynamics
Year: Year 13
Subject: Physics
Unit: Thermal Physics and Kinetic Theory
Period: Autumn Term

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