Thermodynamics For Dummies

by Michael Pauken

Overview

The thermodynamics knowledge you need to succeed in class—and in your career

Thermodynamics For Dummies, 2nd Edition covers the topics found in a typical undergraduate introductory thermodynamic course (which is an essential course to nearly all engineering degree programs). It also brings the subject to life with exciting content on where (and how!) thermodynamics is being used today (spoiler alert: everywhere!). You'll grasp the basics of how heat and energy interact, thermodynamic properties of reactions and mixtures, and how thermodynamic cycles are used to make things go. This useful guide also covers renewable energy systems, new refrigerant technology, and a more diverse perspective on the history of the field.

Within, you'll:

• Get clear explanations of the laws of thermodynamics, thermodynamic cycles, and beyond
• Read about real-world examples to help you connect with the content
• Practice solving thermodynamic problems to internalize what you've learned

For students looking for resources to demystify thermodynamics, Thermodynamics For Dummies, 2nd Edition is the perfect choice. Become thermodynamically savvy with this accessible guide!

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781394323494
Publisher:	Wiley
Publication date:	04/22/2025
Edition description:	2nd ed.
Pages:	400
Product dimensions:	9.10(w) x 7.30(h) x 1.10(d)

About the Author

Michael Pauken, PhD, is a principal mechanical engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. He specializes in spacecraft thermal control systems and interplanetary exploration. He was previously a lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at the California Institute of Technology, teaching courses in thermodynamics and heat transfer.

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Table of Contents

Introduction 1

Part I: Covering the Basics in Thermodynamics 7

Chapter 1: Thermodynamics in Everyday Life 9

Chapter 2: Laying the Foundation of Thermodynamics 15

Chapter 3: Working with Phases and Properties of Substances 39

Chapter 4: Work and Heat Go Together Like Macaroni and Cheese 57

Part II: Employing the Laws of Thermodynamics 75

Chapter 5: Using the First Law in Closed Systems 77

Chapter 6: Using the First Law in Open Systems 91

Chapter 7: Governing Heat Engines and Refrigerators with the Second Law 111

Chapter 8: Entropy Is the Demise of the Universe 123

Chapter 9: Analyzing Systems Using the Second Law of Thermodynamics 145

Part III: Planes, Trains, and Automobiles: Making Heat Work for You 165

Chapter 10: Working with Carnot and Brayton Cycles 167

Chapter 11: Working with Otto and Diesel Cycles 197

Chapter 12: Working with Rankine Cycles 221

Chapter 13: Cooling Off with Refrigeration Cycles 243

Part IV: Handling Thermodynamic Relationships, Reactions, and Mixtures 265

Chapter 14: Understanding the Behavior of Real Gases 267

Chapter 15: Mixing Gases That Don’t React with Each Other 277

Chapter 16: Burning Up with Combustion 303

Part V: The Part of Tens 325

Chapter 17: Ten Famous Names in Thermodynamics 327

Chapter 18: Ten More Cycles of Note 331

Appendix: Thermodynamic Property Tables 341

Index 351