Thermodynamics Thermodynamics - deals with relationships between properties of systems at equilibrium and with differences in properties between various equilibrium states . First law deals with the amount of work that can be done by a chemical or physical process and the amount of heat that is taken in or given out. Second law deals with the natural direction of processes and whether a given chemical reaction will occur spontaneously.
Third law allows equilibrium constants to be calculated from calorimetric measurements alone.
Dealing with macroscopic observables of matter- theory is widely applicable and immensely reliable. Sign Convention Positive values of w indicate work is done by an external force on the system. Negative values of w indicate that a system does work on its environment, e.g., lifting a weight, a gas expanding against a piston. Energy - the capacity to do work. Heat - when the energy of a system changes as a result of a temperature difference we say there has been a flow of heat.