The Principles of Thermodynamics

First published in 1927, this book was intended as a general introduction to the principles of thermodynamics for students in the physical sciences.

George Birtwistle (Author)

9781107660434, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 17 October 2013

180 pages
21.6 x 14 x 1.1 cm, 0.24 kg

First published in 1927 as the second edition of a 1925 original, this book was intended as a general introduction to the principles of thermodynamics for university students involved in the physical sciences. Birtwistle gives a brief overview of the history of science relating to heat and the conservation of energy as well as practical examples to back up salient points in his explanation of key ideas. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in the history of science.

1. Preliminaries
2. The two laws of thermodynamics
the Carnot cycle
3. Dissipation of mechanical energy
entropy
4. Thermodynamics of a fluid
change of state
5. Thermodynamic functions
6. The Rankine cycle
refrigeration
7. Thermodynamical relations for a simple substance
8. The Joule–Thomson porous plug experiment
9. Clapeyron's equation
Clausius' equation
10. Equilibrium of systems
the phase rule
11. Osmotic pressure
vapour pressure
gas mixtures
12. Thermoelectric phenomena
13. Gas theory
variation of specific heat with temperature
14. Radiation
15. The third law of thermodynamics.

Subject Areas: Physics [PH]