Thermodynamics Laws
Thermodynamics is the study of thermal energy and how it is transferred to other forms. The ‘therm’ of thermodynamics relates to ‘thermal’ whilst ‘dynamic’ refers to the changing/transferring state of the thermal energy.
There are two thermodynamic laws of importance when learning about steam.
First Law of Thermodynamics – energy cannot be destroyed, or created, it can only change form.
Second Law of Thermodynamics – heat flows from hot to cold.
Example of the First Law of Thermodynamics (energy conversion)
A power station boiler burns fuel thus transferring the chemical energy of the fuel into thermal energy via the process of combustion. This thermal energy is then transferred to a steam system, then to a steam turbine. The steam turbine converts the steam’s energy into mechanical energy i.e. steam passing through the turbine causes it to rotate. Finally, the turbine is connected to a generator and the generator converts the mechanical energy supplied by the turbine to electrical energy.
Example of the Second Law of Thermodynamics (hot to cold)
A boiler transfers the heat from combustion to the water in the boiler i.e. the heat travels from hot to cold.
Second Law of Thermodynamics (hot to cold)
Additional Resources
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laws_of_thermodynamics
https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-chemistry/chapter/the-laws-of-thermodynamics