The reasons people love the thermodynamics topic go beyond the basic principles and scientific topics. There is just something about it that resonates with us all, from professional engineers to first graders across the country. Thermodynamics is full of rules for how heat moves through materials, produces life cycles and energy conversions, and drives changes in climate conditions. This diverse subject can lead to countless lessons for how a subject applies to everyday life, many topics being covered by this unique science major program (such as molecular chemistry).
This course offers students at Wayne Community College access to an entire department on campus that has been dedicated solely to teaching thermodynamics principles. Which of the remaining designs violate(s) the second law of thermodynamics? How can we predict which systems are going to be more efficient over time? Why do people and objects warm up when they come into contact with each other, and how does their heat transfer take place? Innovation and inspiration can be found in a single thermodynamics concept.
As a major, this subject is unique yet inspirational. This course will focus first on the basic biological functions of life, since the various current designs for solar cells have specific targets for efficiency and longevity (not unlike human beings). This will be followed by thermodynamics principles that are applicable to various technologies, including wind turbines, solar panels, batteries, water mills and power plants.
The Reason Why People Love Thermodynamics Topic :
1. Biological functions
People and objects warm up when they come into contact with each other, and how does their heat transfer take place? Innovation and inspiration can be found in a single thermodynamics concept. As a major, this subject is unique yet inspirational. This course will focus first on the basic biological functions of life, since the various current designs for solar cells have specific targets for efficiency and longevity (not unlike human beings). This will be followed by thermodynamics principles that are applicable to various technologies, including wind turbines, solar panels, batteries, water mills and power plants.
2. Thermal systems
This diverse subject can lead to countless lessons for how a subject applies to everyday life, many topics being covered by this unique science major program (such as molecular chemistry). This course offers students at Wayne Community College access to an entire department on campus that has been dedicated solely to teaching thermodynamics principles.
3. Engineering applications
This unique subject is a fundamental concept in several engineering programs, including mechanical and civil engineering. Numerous careers require extensive technical knowledge of this topic and its various applications. In terms of specialization, however, the most lucrative direction for future engineers may look less like the old school “steampunk” era and more like the technology behind self-driving cars, smart buildings and augmented reality setups.
4. Energy applications
There are numerous applications for thermodynamics in terms of energy conservation and the production of renewable fuels. A computer science major that focuses on the efficiency of renewable energy is an example of a career that could be greatly enhanced by this subject. These careers would include power plant engineers, enough to get some tuition and board paid all while casting aside their worries about job security.
5. Dynamics of living systems
Living systems are defined by both their internal functions and how they interact with external influences such as heat waves, air currents, gravity, etc.. In addition to the basic principles, this course will focus specifically on how thermodynamics applied to plants and animals can help us understand the cycle of life.
6. Physics
In recent years, there has been a strong emphasis on STEM related programs for students at all grade levels. The reason for this movement is simple – not only does a solid STEM education lead to higher paying jobs, but it also supplies people with a better understanding of how their world operates. Thermodynamics principles are especially important in understanding the dynamic relationships between matter, energy and motion. Students in physics study and apply thermodynamic principles as they explore topics such as relativity and quantum mechanics. These subjects are near impossible to understand without an understanding of thermodynamics.
7. Scientific method
The scientific method is used in all fields of science, so it is appropriate that thermodynamics be included in this curriculum. Many thermodynamic principles can be applied to the other disciplines, such as chemistry and biology. This course offers a unique opportunity for an easy transition into a STEM field.
8. Physics
In recent years, there has been a strong emphasis on STEM related programs for students at all grade levels. The reason for this movement is simple – not only does a solid STEM education lead to higher paying jobs, but it also supplies people with a better understanding of how their world operates.
Thermodynamics principles are especially important in understanding the dynamic relationships between matter, energy and motion. Students in physics study and apply thermodynamic principles as they explore topics such as relativity and quantum mechanics. These subjects are near impossible to understand without an understanding of thermodynamics.
