This student textbook and scientific monograph provides a very readable introduction to thermodynamics and the concept of entropy and energy. It gives instructive examples from elementary thermodynamics and physico-chemistry and extrapolates the notion to non-standard thermodynamic subjects like shape memory, dissipation of the earth's atmosphere, and sociology. The reader has numerous possibilities to influence the programs and thus develop an understanding for the thermodynamic principles.

Klappentext

Introductory textbook introducing the concept of competition of entropy and energy with various examples.

Thermodynamics textbook explaining the roles of entropy and energy as prime movers of nature.

Inhalt

Origin of entropy in the work of Clausius.- Entropy in the work of Carathéodory. Absolute temperature.- Entropy in the work of Boltzmann.- Enthalpy and equations of state.- Gases and Rubber.- Statistical thermodynamics.- Entropy and energy in competition.- Planetary atmospheres.- Entropy of mixing. Osmosis.- Phase transition.- Phase diagrams.- Chemical reactions.- Shape memory alloys.- The third law of thermodynamics. Capitulation of entropy.- The zeroth law of thermodynamics - kinetic and thermodynamic temperatures.- Gibbs paradox and degenerate gases.- Thermodynamics of irreversible processes (TIP).- Radiation thermodynamics.- Dissipative entropy source of the earth.- Socio-thermodynamics - integration and segregation in a population.- History of thermodynamics.- Appendix. Equation of balance.- References and annotations.