Foundational Engineering Thermodynamics

Modern engineering relies heavily on efficiently converting and managing energy. This course provides the essential theoretical framework needed to analyze thermal processes in machines and industrial applications. By the end of this course, you will have mastered the First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics and developed the ability to calculate properties of pure substances, analyze fundamental power cycles, and evaluate system efficiency using foundational principles. What you'll learn: * Learn the definitions of system, boundary, state, and process, and key thermodynamic properties like pressure and temperature. * Master the First Law of Thermodynamics (conservation of energy) applied to closed and open systems. * Apply the Second Law of Thermodynamics to determine entropy generation and evaluate process feasibility and efficiency. * Practice calculating and interpreting thermodynamic properties using property tables and charts for pure substances. * Analyze basic thermodynamic cycles, including the Carnot cycle and foundational vapor and gas power cycles. * Understand how to use modern analysis techniques to optimize energy utilization and minimize irreversibility in practical systems. The material begins with fundamental definitions and the concept of thermodynamic equilibrium, progressing systematically through the core laws before applying them to analyze common engineering systems. This course is designed for absolute beginners in engineering or physics who need a rigorous foundation in thermal sciences. No prior knowledge of thermodynamics is required. Start building your essential understanding of how the world uses energy today.