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Thermodynamics_Detailed_Notes

The document provides detailed notes on thermodynamics, covering key concepts such as thermodynamic states, laws, and processes. It explains the implications of these principles in biological systems, including energy transformations and entropy changes. Examples illustrate the application of thermodynamic principles in real-world scenarios, particularly in relation to biological functions and reactions.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
10 views3 pages

Thermodynamics_Detailed_Notes

The document provides detailed notes on thermodynamics, covering key concepts such as thermodynamic states, laws, and processes. It explains the implications of these principles in biological systems, including energy transformations and entropy changes. Examples illustrate the application of thermodynamic principles in real-world scenarios, particularly in relation to biological functions and reactions.

Uploaded by

bhatwaris543
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Thermodynamics - Detailed Notes

Thermodynamic States
Definition: A thermodynamic state is the condition of a system described by its measurable
properties such as temperature, pressure, volume, and composition.
Key Points:
- Defined by state functions like internal energy (U), enthalpy (H), entropy (S).
- Independent of the path taken to reach that state.
- Two systems in the same thermodynamic state have identical properties.
Example: A beaker of water at 25 degreesC and 1 atm pressure has a defined thermodynamic
state.

Zeroth Law of Thermodynamics


Definition: If two systems are each in thermal equilibrium with a third system, they are in thermal
equilibrium with each other.
Key Points:
- Forms the basis of temperature measurement.
- Implies temperature is a fundamental and measurable property.
Example: Thermometers work because of the Zeroth Law - they reach thermal equilibrium with the
object being measured.

First Law of Thermodynamics & Biological Implications


Definition: Energy can neither be created nor destroyed; it can only be transformed from one form to
another.
Key Points:
- Mathematically: Delta U = Q - W (change in internal energy = heat added - work done).
- In biological systems, energy from food is converted into ATP and then into mechanical or heat
energy.
Example: ATP hydrolysis in cells releases energy used for muscle contraction and maintaining ion
gradients.

Second Law of Thermodynamics & Biological Significance


Definition: The entropy of an isolated system always increases over time.
Key Points:
- Biological systems maintain low internal entropy by increasing the entropy of surroundings.
- Spontaneous reactions increase the total entropy of the universe.
Example: Glucose breakdown increases entropy while providing energy for cellular processes.

Third Law of Thermodynamics


Definition: As the temperature of a perfect crystalline substance approaches absolute zero, its
entropy approaches zero.
Key Points:
- Provides a reference point for entropy measurement.
- Important in calculations involving low temperature thermodynamics.
Example: Used in determining absolute entropy values of biomolecules in protein folding studies.

Isothermal and Adiabatic Processes


Definition: Isothermal: Temperature remains constant; Adiabatic: No heat exchange with
surroundings.
Key Points:
- Isothermal: Delta U = 0, so Q = W.
- Adiabatic: Q = 0, so Delta U = -W.
Example: Gas exchange in lungs is near-isothermal; quick enzyme reactions in insulated spaces
may be adiabatic.

Concept of Heat of a Reaction (Enthalpy Change)


Definition: The amount of heat released or absorbed during a chemical reaction at constant
pressure.
Key Points:
- Exothermic: Releases heat (Delta H < 0).
- Endothermic: Absorbs heat (Delta H > 0).
Example: Combustion of glucose is exothermic and provides energy to cells.

Thermodynamic Systems
Definition: A system refers to the part of the universe being studied, while everything else is the
surroundings.
Key Points:
- Open system: Exchanges matter and energy (e.g., living cells).
- Closed system: Exchanges energy only.
- Isolated system: No exchange of matter or energy.
Example: A human body is an open system exchanging gases, nutrients, and heat.

Thermodynamic Properties
Definition: Characteristics of a system that define its state and can be measured or calculated.
Key Points:
- Extensive properties: Depend on system size (e.g., volume, mass).
- Intensive properties: Independent of size (e.g., temperature, pressure).
Example: Enthalpy and entropy are state functions used in calculating energy changes.

Importance of Thermodynamics in Biological Systems


Definition: Thermodynamics helps in understanding energy transformations and the spontaneity of
biochemical reactions.
Key Points:
- Explains how ATP stores and releases energy.
- Predicts reaction feasibility using Gibbs free energy (Delta G).
- Aids in understanding enzyme catalysis and metabolic pathways.
Example: Delta G values help predict whether a biochemical reaction will proceed spontaneously.

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