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Published:
April 7, 2025

Thermodynamics For Dummies

Overview

The thermodynamics knowledge you need to succeed in class—and in your career

Thermodynamics For Dummies, 2nd Edition covers the topics found in a typical undergraduate introductory thermodynamic course (which is an essential course to nearly all engineering degree programs). It also brings the subject to life with exciting content on where (and how!) thermodynamics is being used today (spoiler alert: everywhere!). You'll grasp the basics of how heat and energy interact, thermodynamic properties of reactions and mixtures, and how thermodynamic cycles are used to make things go. This useful guide also covers renewable energy systems, new refrigerant technology, and a more diverse perspective on the history of the field.

Within, you'll:

  • Get clear explanations of the laws of thermodynamics, thermodynamic cycles, and beyond
  • Read about real-world examples to help you connect with the content
  • Practice solving thermodynamic problems to internalize what you've learned

For students looking for resources to demystify thermodynamics, Thermodynamics For Dummies, 2nd Edition is the perfect choice. Become thermodynamically savvy with this accessible guide!

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About The Author

Michael Pauken, PhD, is a principal mechanical engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. He specializes in spacecraft thermal control systems and interplanetary exploration. He was previously a lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at the California Institute of Technology, teaching courses in thermodynamics and heat transfer.

Sample Chapters

thermodynamics for dummies

CHEAT SHEET

Thermodynamics sounds intimidating, and it can be. However, if you focus on the most important thermodynamic formulas and equations, get comfortable converting from one unit of physical measurement to another, and become familiar with the physical constants related to thermodynamics, you’ll be at the head of the class.

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Articles from
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Sooner or later, you’re going to have to convert from one unit of physical measurement to another. This list gives you some of the most common conversion factors you need in thermodynamics. Acceleration: 1 m/s2 = 100 cm/s2 Area: 1 m2 = 104 cm2 = 106 mm2 Density: 1 g/cm3 = 1 kg/L = 1,000 kg/m3 Energy, heat, work, internal energy, enthalpy: 1 kJ = 1,000 J = 1,000 N·m = 1 kPa·m3 1 kJ/kg = 1,000 m2/s2 Force: 1 N = 1 kg·m/s2 Length: 1 m = 100 cm = 1,000 mm Mass: 1 kg = 1,000 g Power, heat transfer rate: 1 W = 1 J/s, 1 kW = 1,000 W Pressure: 1 Pa = 1 N/m2, 1 kPa = 1,000 kPa, 1 MPa = 1,000 kPa 1 atmosphere (atm) = 101.
Thermodynamics is filled with equations and formulas. Here’s a list of the most important ones you need to do the calculations necessary for solving thermodynamics problems. Combustion equations: Air-fuel ratio: Hydrocarbon fuel combustion reaction: Compressibility calculations: Compressibility fac
You run across a few physical constants when working out thermodynamics problems. Following is a list of the constants you need when you’re working with potential energy, pressure, or the ideal gas law. Acceleration of gravity: g = 9.81 m/s2 Standard atmospheric pressure: 1 atm = 101.3 kPa Universal gas
Thermodynamics sounds intimidating, and it can be. However, if you focus on the most important thermodynamic formulas and equations, get comfortable converting from one unit of physical measurement to another, and become familiar with the physical constants related to thermodynamics, you’ll be at the head of the class.
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