Thermodynamics Worked Problems
The worked problems in this section are by Prof. Marco Ruzzi.
Thermodynamics connects a small number of fundamental principles with a remarkably wide range of physical phenomena.
This section collects worked thermodynamics problems designed to develop both calculation skills and physical understanding.
Each topic is approached through exercises, step-by-step solutions, and the theoretical ideas needed to interpret the results.
The problems cover ideal gases, entropy, adiabatic transformations, thermodynamic equilibrium, Gibbs free energy, phase transitions, colligative properties, and reaction energetics.
Ideal Gas Processes — Worked Problems
Solve problems involving ideal gases and thermodynamic transformations, with applications of the ideal gas law and the first law of thermodynamics.
The exercises connect pressure, volume, temperature, work, heat, and internal energy in different thermodynamic processes.
Entropy and Adiabatic Processes — Worked Problems
Practice problems involving entropy changes, the second law of thermodynamics, and adiabatic transformations.
The solutions emphasize both the calculation of thermodynamic quantities and their physical interpretation.
Maxwell’s Demon
An article by Cesare Peli on Maxwell’s thought experiment, the statistical meaning of the Second Law, and the relation between entropy and information.
Equilibrium and Spontaneity — Worked Problems
Solve problems concerning thermodynamic equilibrium and spontaneous processes.
The exercises explore how thermodynamic quantities and potentials can be used to determine equilibrium conditions and the direction in which a process can evolve.
Gibbs Free Energy — Worked Problems
Practice the calculation and interpretation of Gibbs free energy in thermodynamic processes.
The problems connect enthalpy, entropy, and temperature with the conditions for spontaneity and equilibrium, particularly for transformations at constant temperature and pressure.
Phase Transitions — Worked Problems
Solve thermodynamics problems involving phase transitions and phase equilibrium.
The exercises examine quantities such as latent heat, entropy, temperature, pressure, and free energy in transformations between different phases of matter.
Colligative Properties and Freezing — Worked Problems
Practice problems involving colligative properties and freezing-point depression.
The solutions connect the behavior of solutions with thermodynamic concepts and phase equilibrium, showing how dissolved particles modify freezing conditions.
Reaction Energetics — Worked Problems
Solve problems on the energetics of physical and chemical transformations.
The exercises use enthalpy, entropy, and Gibbs free-energy changes to analyze energy transfer, equilibrium, and thermodynamic spontaneity.