ABSTRACT
The aim of this chapter is to revise some basic heat science, such as Boyles’s and Charles’s laws, and to introduce some basic thermodynamics such as first and second laws of thermodynamics. The treatment is designed to encourage students who are progressing form a vocational diploma or certificate course, and the text and examples are chosen to emphasise the connection between theory and practical applications. The concepts of open and closed systems are described. Work done during various types of compression and expansion are dealt with because of their relevance to the study of theoretical and practical cycles of engine operation that are covered in subsequent chapters.
