Course Overview

In this course, advanced concepts of thermodynamics will be presented. Starting with postulation approaches, the physical structure of thermodynamics shall be elucidated in a fundamental manner. In contrast to conventional engineering approaches that are generally focused on the application aspects, we will discuss the logic induction and mathematical framework that shape this subject. In addition to the relevant examples, regarding the formulation and description of fundamental equations, specific interest shall be directed to advanced topics such as stability of thermodynamic systems, phase transition, and critical phenomena. Furthermore, more insight will be gained as the macroscopic elements are connected to the microscopic structure, through the interpretation of entropy, in terms of the statistical mechanical treatment.

Learning Achievement

Course Contents:

1. The problem and the postulates

2. The conditions of equilibrium

3. Some formal relationships, and sample systems

4. Reversible processes and the maximum work theorem

5. Alternative formulations and Legendre transformations

6. The extremum principle in the Legendre transformed representations

7. Maxwell relations

8. Stability of thermodynamic systems

9. First-order phase transitions

10. Critical phenomena

11. The Nernst postulate

12. Properties of materials

13. Statistical mechanics and the entropy

Competence

Course prerequisites

Grading Philosophy

Course schedule

Course type

Online Course Requirement

Instructor

Kuo-Long Pan

Other information

Department of Mechanical Engineering, Graduate Institute of Mechanical Engineering

Site for Inquiry