Purchase Solution

Law of Thermodynamics

Not what you're looking for?

Ask Custom Question

Describe the laws of thermodynamics.
Explain how these scientific laws apply to energy use, energy conversions, and the need for energy efficiency.
Describe the pros and cons of the following energy types, 1 paragraph for each: Fossil fuel: Oil, natural gas, and coal
Nuclear energy
Solar energy
Wind power
Water (hydro) power
Bioconversion (biofuel)

Research and describe 2 provisions of the Energy Policy Act of 2005.
Describe each provision, and provide your opinion about how each provision helps the United States meet energy use goals.

Please include your references

Purchase this Solution

Solution Summary

This solution explains the law of thermodynamics, fuels, and The Energy Act. The sources used are also included in the solution.

Solution Preview

Step 1
The first law of thermodynamics is that energy can be changed from one form to another but it cannot be created or destroyed. When energy is used the internal energy of a system changes as heat flows in or out of it. When there is energy conversion it is important to ensure that there is no leakage of energy. Further, during energy conversion the systems can be made more efficient so that a larger proportion of the energy converted is used.
The second law of thermodynamics says that if no energy enters or leaves the system the potential energy of the state will always be less than that of the initial state. This law applies to energy use because it means energy has to be replenished to ensure that energy conversions continue to take place. For energy conversion to take place energy has to be replenished. The example is that when a car has run out of gas it must be filled again to make it function.
The third law of thermodynamics is that the entropy of a system approaches a constant value as the temperature approaches absolute zero.
There is need for energy efficiency because energy changes from one form to another and if no energy enters or leaves the system the potential energy of the state will always be less than that of the initial state. Continuing with the car example, if one car runs for X kms on a gallon of gas, another car that runs for x + 5 kms on a gallon of gas is more desirable. The second car is more energy ...

Purchase this Solution


Free BrainMass Quizzes
Geography Points of Interest

Brief query of points of interest in the world. For example, choosing the largest body of water from 3 choices.

"Tornadoes and Hurricanes" Vocabulary

Brief introduction to vocabulary terms related to the atmosphere. Definitions are related to conditions for tornadoes and hurricanes.

United States and Canada Vocabulary

Assessment of basic vocabulary terms related to geography and resources in the United States and Canda.

Structure of the Earth

Basic introduction to terms related to the structure of the Earth, including definitions and application of knowledge. This quiz focuses on the spheres.

Basic Energy Quiz

This quiz will test your knowledge of basic energy related questions. It will improve your knowledge on units of measurement .