thermodynamics
/ˌθɜː.mə.daɪˈnæm.ɪks/ IELTSAcademic
noun
Thermodynamics is the branch of physics that studies heat, energy, and how they move and change. It explains how engines, machines, and living things use energy.
- She is studying thermodynamics this semester.
- Thermodynamics helps explain how a car engine works.
- The professor gave a lecture on thermodynamics.
Adinary Nuance
Thermodynamics is broader than "heat" or "temperature." Heat is one part of the subject, but thermodynamics also covers energy transfer, work, and efficiency. Use it when you mean the science behind how energy behaves, not just hot and cold.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- nhiệt động lực học
- Spanish
- termodinámica
- Chinese
- 热力学
- Japanese
- 熱力学
- Korean
- 열역학
Etymology
Thermodynamics comes from Greek roots meaning "heat" and "power" or "movement." The word became common in science in the 19th century.
Common phrases
laws of thermodynamicsthermodynamics problemthermodynamics coursethermodynamics principles
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is thermodynamics a difficult word for students?
- Yes, it is a technical academic word. Students usually meet it in physics or engineering classes.
- What is the difference between thermodynamics and temperature?
- Temperature tells how hot or cold something is. Thermodynamics studies heat, energy, and how they change.
- Is thermodynamics used in engineering?
- Yes. Engineers use thermodynamics to design engines, refrigerators, power plants, and other systems.
- Can I say 'thermodynamics is' or 'thermodynamics are'?
- Use "thermodynamics is". It is usually treated as a singular subject name.