Thermodynamics of Natural Systems
Theory and Applications in Geochemistry and Environmental Science

Fully updated, this streamlined new textbook is an accessible introduction to thermodynamics for Earth and environmental scientists, emphasising real-world problems.

Greg Anderson (Author)

9781107175211, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 27 April 2017

428 pages, 141 b/w illus.
25.3 x 19.3 x 2.3 cm, 1.09 kg

'Thermodynamics is one of the most universal scientific disciplines … But being so universal also requires it to be introduced and taught very differently to students in such diverse fields of science. This 3rd edition is a really welcome and timely book in this context. The book introduces and discusses the most important concepts of equilibrium thermodynamics in their specific applications to geological and environmental sciences. The author has made particular efforts to only use minimum necessary formal mathematical apparatus to present the thermodynamic laws and relationships. However, this is carefully done without any oversimplification or loss of physical accuracy … The textbook can be recommended as a very good introductory course in thermodynamics for undergraduate geoscience and environmental science students.' Andrey G. Kalinichev, École des Mines de Nantes, France

Thermodynamics deals with energy levels and energy transfers between states of matter, and is therefore fundamental to all branches of science. This new edition provides an accessible introduction to the subject, specifically tailored to the interests of Earth and environmental science students. Beginning at an elementary level, the first four chapters explain all necessary concepts via a simple graphical approach. Throughout the rest of the book, the author emphasizes the importance of field observations and demonstrates that, despite being derived from idealized circumstances, thermodynamics is crucial to understanding ore formation, acid mine drainage, and other real-world geochemical and geophysical problems. Exercises now follow each chapter, with answers provided at the end of the book. An associated website includes extra chapters and password-protected answers to additional problems. This textbook is ideal for undergraduate and graduate students studying geochemistry and environmental science.

Preface
1. What is thermodynamics?
2. Defining our terms
3. The First Law of Thermodynamics
4. The Second Law of Thermodynamics
5. Getting data
6. Some simple applications
7. Solutions
8. Fugacity and activity
9. The equilibrium constant
10. Rock-water systems
11. Redox reactions
12. Phase diagrams
13. Affinity and extent of reaction
Appendix A. Constants and numerical values
Appendix B. Standard state properties
Appendix C. Answers to exercises
References
Index
Online material: real solutions
The phase rule
Equations of state
Solid solutions
Electrolyte solutions
The Van't Hoff equilibrium box
Topics in mathematics.

Subject Areas: Environmental science, engineering & technology [TQ], Geochemistry [RBGK], Volcanology & seismology [RBC], Earth sciences [RB], Thermodynamics & heat [PHH]