Thermodynamics: Defining Systems, States, and State Functions (F22_L01)

In this lecture I discuss the prerequisites for studying the thermodynamics of solids. We discuss what is a system and how we define different type of walls to limited interactions between regions of space. We define what it means for a system to be in a particular state and the multivariable mathematics of state functions. We discuss how thermodynamic variables are connected to measurable observables. Intrinsic and extrinsic variables are defined. Global and local equilibrium and metastability is defined.

(This is Lecture 01 taught Fall 2022)