Book

Why is thermodynamics important? • Understanding energy: It is based on the first law (conservation of energy: energy cannot be created, only transformed) and the second law (irreversibility and entropy— the degree of disorder, which tends to increase). • Design of thermal machines: It has enabled the optimization of steam engines, car engines, turbines, refrigerators, and heat pumps. • Energy transition and industry: It helps in calculating efficiency, limiting thermal losses ("waste heat"), designing energy recovery systems, and improving the efficiency of low-carbon industrial processes. • Chemistry and biology: It allows for the prediction of whether a chemical reaction is possible and whether it releases or absorbs heat (exothermic or endothermic reactions), as well as the understanding of biological processes related to metabolism.