Introduction to the First Law of Thermodynamics - Closed Systems: Screencasts
An introduction to the first law and explanation of the terms in the energy balance.
We suggest you list the important points in this screencast as a way to increase retention.
Introduces the first law for a closed system and considers cases of constant pressure and constant volume.
We suggest you list the important points in this screencast as a way to increase retention.
Important Equations:
Kinetic Energy:
\[E_K = \frac{1}{2} mu^2\]
where \(E_K\) = kinetic energy,
\(m\) = mass, and
\(u\) = velocity
Potential Energy:
\[E_P = mgh\]
where \(E_P\) = potential energy,
\(g\) = the acceleration of gravity (9.81 m/s2), and
\(h\) = height above reference plane.
First Law Closed System:
\[\Delta U + \Delta E_K + \Delta E_P = Q + W\]
where \(\Delta U\) = change in internal energy,
\(\Delta E_K\) = change in kinetic energy,
\(\Delta E_P\) = change in potential energy,
\(Q\) = heat added, and
\(W\) = work added.