The laws of thermodynamics : a very short introduction

Atkins, P. W. (Peter William) 1940- (Author). Atkins, P. W. (Peter William) 1940- Four laws that drive the universe. (Added Author).

Summary: "From the sudden expansion of a cloud of gas or the cooling of tea, to the unfolding of a thought in our minds and even the course of life itself, everything is governed by the four Laws of Thermodynamics. These laws specify the nature of 'energy' and 'temperature', and establish the arrow of time: why things change and why death must come." "Originally published as Four Laws that Drive the Universe, this topic is now brought into the Very Short Introduction series. Explaining the basis and deeper implications of each law and highlighting its relevance with everyday examples, Atkins uses the minimum of mathematics to introduce concepts such as entropy and free energy, and takes us to the brink of absolute zero of temperature, and beyond."--Jacket.

Record details

ISBN: 9780199572199
ISBN: 0199572194
Physical Description: print
xiv, 103 pages : illustrations ; 18 cm.
Publisher: Oxford ; New York : Oxford University Press, 2010.

Content descriptions

General Note:	"First published in hardback as Four laws that drive the universe, 2007, first published as a Very short introduction in 2010"--Title page verso.
Bibliography, etc. Note:	Includes bibliographical references and indexes.
Formatted Contents Note:	1. The zeroth law : the concept of temperature -- 2. The first law : the conservation of energy -- 3. The second law : the increase in entropy -- 4. Free energy : the availability of work -- 5. The third law : the unattainability of zero.