Thermodynamics is the branch of physics concerned with heat, temperature, and their interactions with matter. More specifically, thermodynamics examines the fundamental principles behind the movement and transfer of thermal energy.

You may already be familiar with concepts such as heat transfer via conduction, convection, and radiation, as well as changes of state—like melting and boiling—at specific temperatures. But what are the underlying physics principles that govern why these state changes occur?

In this series of lessons, we will explore key thermodynamic concepts. We will begin by defining temperature, then examine two fundamental thermal properties of materials: specific heat capacity and latent heat. Finally, we will investigate how heat transfers between substances via conduction, convection, and radiation, along with the factors that determine the rate of heat transfer.

Heat vs Temperature