First Law of Thermodynamics
This topic covers the concepts of internal energy, heat, and work done by a gas. Students apply the first law of thermodynamics to various thermodynamic processes.
About This Topic
This topic covers the concepts of internal energy, heat, and work done by a gas. Students apply the first law of thermodynamics to various thermodynamic processes.
Key Questions
- What constitutes the internal energy of a system?
- How is the first law of thermodynamics a statement of energy conservation?
- How do we calculate the work done by an expanding gas?
Active Learning Ideas
See all activities→Activities & Teaching Strategies
See all activities
Planning templates for Physics
More in Thermal Physics
Temperature and Ideal Gases
Students learn about the macroscopic properties of ideal gases and the kinetic theory of gases. They relate the absolute temperature of a gas to the average kinetic energy of its molecules.
8 methodologies
Specific Heat Capacity and Latent Heat
Students investigate the thermal properties of matter, focusing on specific heat capacity and specific latent heat. They solve problems involving heat transfer and phase changes.
8 methodologies