Introduction to Thermodynamics: Transferring Energy from Here to There Course Syllabus
Full curriculum breakdown — modules, lessons, estimated time, and outcomes.
This 8-week course offers a comprehensive introduction to thermodynamics, emphasizing the transfer of energy in engineering systems. Designed for learners with a calculus background, it combines theoretical foundations with real-world applications through interactive exercises, virtual system analyses, and downloadable resources. Each module spans approximately 10–12 hours of study, totaling 80–90 hours for the full course. You’ll progress from core principles to advanced applications, culminating in a final project that integrates key concepts across power cycles, efficiency analysis, and system design.
Module 1: Thermodynamic Foundations
Estimated time: 12 hours
- Defining system boundaries and control volumes
- Intensive vs. extensive properties
- Equilibrium states and state postulate
- Property diagrams: P-v and T-s basics
Module 2: First Law Analysis
Estimated time: 12 hours
- Energy conservation in closed systems
- Work and heat transfer mechanisms
- Enthalpy and its role in energy analysis
- Case studies: Closed and open system applications
Module 3: Second Law Concepts
Estimated time: 12 hours
- Entropy and irreversibility
- Reversible vs. irreversible processes
- Carnot efficiency and cycle limits
- Heat engine and refrigerator performance
Module 4: Phase Change Analysis
Estimated time: 10 hours
- Phases of pure substances
- Saturation states and phase diagrams
- Quality and property interpolation
- Applications in steam and refrigerant systems
Module 5: Engineering Applications
Estimated time: 12 hours
- Rankine cycle analysis and optimization
- Basic combustion principles
- HVAC system fundamentals
- Virtual tours of power plant components
Module 6: Final Project
Estimated time: 20 hours
- Analyze a real-world thermal system
- Apply First and Second Law principles
- Submit efficiency calculations and system recommendations
Prerequisites
- Working knowledge of differential and integral calculus
- Familiarity with basic physics concepts (mechanics, energy)
- Supplemental practice recommended for property table fluency
What You'll Be Able to Do After
- Interpret P-v and T-s diagrams for phase change systems
- Apply the First and Second Laws to engineering problems
- Calculate efficiency of heat engines and refrigeration cycles
- Analyze power plant components using thermodynamic principles
- Prepare for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam thermodynamics section