PCC-20306 Thermodynamics

Course

Credits 6.00

Teaching methodContact hours
Lectures18
Problem-based learning14
Tutorial18
Self-study
Course coordinator(s)dr. ir. JT Knuiman
dr. ir. PA Barneveld
Lecturer(s)dr. ir. JHB Sprakel
dr. ir. JT Knuiman
dr. ir. PA Barneveld
Examiner(s)dr. ir. JT Knuiman
dr. ir. PA Barneveld

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

Elementary mathematics
Physical Chemistry PCC-21802 or PCC-21803

Contents:

This is a continuation course on thermodynamics that builds on the principles laid down in the courses Introductory Thermodynamics A (PCC-21802) and Introductory Thermodynamics B (PCC-21803). It starts with refreshing the basic principles from classical thermodynamics and deepening mathematical and aspects such as exact and inexact differentials, Legendre transformations and extremum principles. Special attention will be given to the application of thermodynamics to irreversible processes, electrochemistry and surface chemistry. The course also contains a general introduction to statistical thermodynamics. Starting from probability theory and distributions of energy among available energy levels, the Boltzmann distribution and the partition function are introduced and their relations with thermodynamic properties explored. The course contains a modular part in which statistical or classical thermodynamic issues are worked out in more detail. The modular parts are integrated with case studies that can be worked on in small groups. The module 'statistical thermodynamics' includes practical classes where calculations using the self-consistent field approach can be done for e.g. phase separations and biological membranes. The module 'classical thermodynamics' includes lectures, tutorials and a case study in the fields of protein folding, blue energy, gelatinization of starch, complexation of organic substances in water purification.

Learning outcomes:

At the end of this course students are expected to be able to:
-demonstrate clear understanding of basic thermodynamic concepts and definitions including state functions (energy, enthalpy, entropy, Gibbs and Helmholtz energy) and path functions (heat and work);
-derive thermodynamic relations using the properties of state functions, exact differentials and Legendre transformations;
- perform calculations of thermodynamic properties for reversibly and irreversibly operating systems;
- perform calculations of thermodynamic properties for real and regular mixtures, electrochemical and surface-chemical systems under well-defined conditions of temperature, pressure and composition;
- perform calculations of thermodynamic properties based on statistical concepts;
- function properly in practical classes and / or a project with colleague-students on an applied subject, write a report on the findings and do an oral presentation on the results.

Activities:

Lectures, tutorials and self-study. Participation in a case study group (about 5 students per group). Each student can indicate in advance his/her interest in a particular case study.

Examination:

Written exam (essay). In the final mark, the exam has a weight of 75% and the case study of 25%.

Literature:

To be announced.

ProgrammePhaseSpecializationPeriod
Compulsory for: BMLMolecular Life SciencesBSc2AF
Restricted Optional for: BBTBiotechnologyBSc2AF