Physics 101 Tutorials: Understanding the Laws of Thermodynamics

by Paul A. Heckert

Do you need a quick tutorial on the three laws of thermodynamics? Physics 101 Understanding the Laws of Thermodynamics clearly explains the concepts underlying the three laws of thermodynamics. Written by a professor with a PhD in astrophysics and over 30 years experience teaching physics and astronomy, this tutorial will be useful for any physics, engineering, or science student from middle school through college who needs help understanding the laws of thermodynamics. This tutorial will also be useful for science teachers, home schoolers, or anyone else who needs a quick refresher on the laws of thermodynamics.
This tutorial starts with an overview of the three laws of thermodynamics. Then each of the laws is explained in more detail. The clearly written explanations are conceptual and stress understanding the concepts rather than memorizing words or manipulating equations. A brief tutorial on converting temperatures to the Kelvin temperature scale, required by thermodynamics follows. This tutorial also provides conceptual examples of applications of the laws of thermodynamics to perpetual motion machines, biology, and biological evolution. A final fun chapter shows how to apply the principles of thermodynamics to avoid investment scams.
This physics tutorial covers the major concepts contained in the three laws of thermodynamics, yet it is brief enough to read in about a half hour. You can quickly understand the concepts involved in the laws of thermodynamics. You will then be able to apply your understanding to more easily solve homework problems, study for your exam, or whatever your need is.
Paul A. Heckert, the author of Physics 101 Understanding the Laws of Thermodynamics, earned a PhD in physics with a specialization in astronomy from the University of New Mexico in 1983. He is a professor of physics and astronomy at Western Carolina University and has been teaching college level physics and astronomy for over 30 years. As an active research astronomer, Heckert has published over 60 research articles in respected peer reviewed astronomy journals. This combination of teaching and research experience provides the expertise and skill to clearly and accurately explain difficult scientific concepts.

30 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 23, 2011

About the author

I earned a PhD in physics with a specialization in astronomy from the University of New Mexico in 1983. I am now a professor of physics and astronomy at Western Carolina University and have been teaching college level physics and astronomy for over 30 years. As an active research astronomer, I have published over 60 research articles in refereed astronomy journals. This combination of teaching and research experience provides the expertise and skill to clearly and accurately explain difficult scientific concepts.
I am married and have three grown children. When not working or stargazing, I am a very avid runner who regularly runs marathon and ultramarathon races. I also enjoy participating in service or building projects in Latin American countries including: Haiti, Guatemala, Panama, and Ecuador.