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Introduction to Thermodynamics: Transferring Energy from Here to There

An exceptionally clear presentation of thermodynamic concepts that transforms abstract principles into practical engineering analysis tools.

access

Lifetime

level

Medium

certificate

Certificate of completion

language

English

What you will learn in Introduction to Thermodynamics Course

  • Fundamental thermodynamic concepts (systems, properties, processes)
  • First and Second Law of Thermodynamics
  • Heat engines and refrigeration cycles
  • Property diagrams (P-v, T-s) interpretation

  • Phase change analysis
  • Basic power plant components
  • Energy efficiency calculations

Program Overview

Thermodynamic Foundations

⏱️ 2 weeks

  • Covers system boundaries, intensive/extensive properties, and equilibrium states.
  • Includes state postulate applications.

First Law Analysis

⏱️ 2 weeks

  • Focuses on energy conservation, work/heat transfer, and enthalpy.
  • Features closed/open system case studies.

Second Law Concepts

⏱️ 2 weeks

  • Examines entropy, reversibility, and Carnot efficiency.
  • Includes heat engine/refrigerator performance calculations.

Engineering Applications

⏱️ 2 weeks

  • Teaches Rankine cycle analysis, combustion basics, and HVAC principles.
  • Features power plant virtual tours.

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Job Outlook

  • Professional value: Core engineering discipline
  • Salary potential: 75K−130K for thermal systems engineers
  • Industry demand: Essential for energy, automotive, HVAC sectors
  • Certification benefit: FE exam preparation
9.8Expert Score
Highly Recommended
Master fundamental thermodynamics principles and their engineering applications through this rigorous introductory course.
Value
9.2
Price
9.4
Skills
9.6
Information
9.5
PROS
  • University of Michigan faculty
  • Interactive property table exercises
  • Real-world system analyses
  • Downloadable equation sheets
CONS
  • Requires calculus foundation
  • Steep initial learning curve
  • Needs supplemental practice

Specification: Introduction to Thermodynamics: Transferring Energy from Here to There

access

Lifetime

level

Medium

certificate

Certificate of completion

language

English

FAQs

  • Demonstrates thermodynamics with real-world examples, such as solar panels, engines, and insulated mugs, making abstract laws tangible.
  • Emphasizes practical skills like energy and mass conservation, useful in analyzing everyday systems—from power grids to household appliances.
  • Explains control mass versus control volume systems, enabling learners to model anything from sealed containers to fluid flow in engines.
  • Teaches the use of property diagrams (e.g., P-v, T-s) to visualize phase changes and system behaviors clearly.
  • Designed for beginners; suitable for those with high school-level chemistry, physics, and calculus, not advanced background.
  • Uses digestible video segments (~8–12 minutes) with quizzes embedded, reducing reliance on heavy math lectures.
  • Focuses on intuitive understanding (e.g., energy balance, system types) rather than deep mathematical derivations.
  • Mastery learning approach helps reinforcement through repeatable quizzes (80% passing threshold).
  • Estimated workload is ~6 hours per week (lectures and quizzes combined), fitting well into busy schedules.
  • Structured over 8 modules, typically covering content in 2-week segments (Foundation, First Law, Second Law, etc.).
  • Totally self-paced—learners can progress faster or slower depending on their availability.
  • Offers multiple short videos per module to fit learning into bite-sized intervals.
  • Mastery-style quizzes allow flexibility with multiple attempts and no exam pressure.
  • Builds a foundation for advanced engineering courses like heat transfer, gas dynamics, or propulsion.
  • Helps you analyze energy systems such as power plants, HVAC, and internal combustion engines—key to many STEM careers.
  • Reinforces understanding of global energy challenges—essential for roles in sustainability, environmental science, and renewables.
  • Embedded knowledge in thermodynamic cycles (e.g., Rankine, Carnot) prepares you for energy system design.
  • Lessons include in-video quizzes that enhance engagement and keep learners actively involved.
  • Features practice quizzes at module ends with unlimited attempts, helping reinforce learning.
  • Uses a Mastery Learning model—learners must achieve 80% to pass, fostering deliberate, iterative understanding.
  • While there’s no mention of discussion forums or peer interaction, content clarity mitigates reliance on peer support.
  • Supplementary materials like suggested reading lists help learners extend learning beyond the course.
Introduction to Thermodynamics: Transferring Energy from Here to There
Introduction to Thermodynamics: Transferring Energy from Here to There
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