The first two editions of Concise Chemical Thermodynamics proved to be a very popular introduction to a subject many undergraduate students perceive to be difficult due to the underlying mathematics. With its concise explanations and clear examples, the text has for the past 40 years clarified for countless students one of the most complicated branches of science. Following in the tradition of its predecessors, this Third Edition continues to offer a practical, example-based exploration of a critical topic, maintaining academic rigor but eschewing complicated calculations.

Updated to reflect new concerns in the 21st century, this edition now includes:

An extensive outlook on the world’s current energy consumption and the role of renewable energy in the future An example of an exothermic reaction through a discussion of the Mond process for extracting and purifying nickel The use of Mathcad® to calculate a plot of Gibbs energy for a reaction mixture versus the extent of reaction An explanation of the Lambda sensor, which reduces vehicle emissions The use of FactSage software to calculate and describe the production of silicon in an arc (oven) furnace

This latest edition re-works problems that have proven to be the most difficult for students and adds several new ones to further amplify complex areas. The book also provides an updated list of suggested readings. Keeping pace with new technology and the shift in emphasis to green chemistry, this volume provides an up-to-date treatment of a foundational topic.

Contents

Energy

The Realm of Thermodynamics

Energy Bookkeeping

Nature’s Driving Forces

Setting the Scene: Basic Ideas

System and Surroundings

Functions of State

Mechanical Work and Expanding Gases

The Absolute Temperature Scale

Forms of Energy and Their Interconversion

Forms of Renewable Energy

Solar Energy

Wind Energy

Hydroelectric Power

Geothermal EnergyBiomass Energy

References

Problems

The First Law of Thermodynamics

Statement of the First Law

Reversible Expansion of an Ideal Gas

Constant-Volume Processes

Constant-Pressure Processes

A New Function: Enthalpy

Relationship between ΔH and ΔU

Uses and Conventions of ΔH

Enthalpy Change of Reaction

Standard Enthalpies of Formation

The Many Uses of Δf H0 Data

References

Problems

Thermochemistry

Calorimetry

Bomb Calorimeters

Differential Scanning Calorimetry

Concepts of Heat Capacity

Combustion and Flame Temperatures

Variation of Reaction Enthalpies with Temperature

Bond Energies

Average Bond Dissociation Energies

References

Problems

Spontaneous Changes

Everyday Processes

Exothermicity: A Possible Criterion

Spontaneous Exothermic Processes

Spontaneous Processes Involving No Heat Change