Course Overview

Course description

Thermodynamics I is an introductory course in classical thermodynamics. It studies the principles of energy conservation and the laws that govern energy transformations, from the basic concepts and the properties of pure substances to the First and Second Laws, the Carnot cycle, and entropy. The ideas developed here are essential for the design and analysis of thermal machines such as turbines, compressors, refrigerators, and other energy conversion devices.

General objective

Develop the student’s ability to analyze and solve engineering problems by applying the principles and laws of classical thermodynamics, including energy balances, the characterization of pure substances, and the analysis of the quality of energy transformations.

Learning objectives

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

  • Apply the fundamental concepts of thermodynamics (system, properties, processes, and states) to solve engineering problems.
  • Determine the thermodynamic properties of pure substances using tables, diagrams, and equations of state.
  • Apply the First Law of Thermodynamics to closed systems and control volumes under steady and transient conditions.
  • Analyze the Second Law of Thermodynamics to evaluate the feasibility and maximum efficiency of thermodynamic cycles.
  • Calculate entropy changes and isentropic efficiencies in flow devices such as turbines, compressors, and nozzles.

Methodology

This is an introductory course in classical thermodynamics, designed for students taking their first course on the subject. It aims to build a solid understanding of energy, its transformations, and the laws that govern them. Each topic combines conceptual explanations with worked examples and in-class problem solving, so that students learn to model engineering systems and to approach problems in a clear, methodical way. Regular independent study and consistent practice with problems are essential to succeed in the course.

Bibliography

  • Çengel, Y. A., & Boles, M. A. Thermodynamics: An Engineering Approach. McGraw-Hill Education.
  • Moran, M. J., & Shapiro, H. N. Fundamentals of Engineering Thermodynamics. Wiley.
  • Borgnakke, C., & Sonntag, R. E. Fundamentals of Thermodynamics. Wiley.
  • Smith, J. M., Van Ness, H. C., & Abbott, M. M. Introduction to Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics. McGraw-Hill.