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Thermodynamics

Thermodynamics for GATE Mechanical Engineering, one topic per lesson: the theory in plain words, the formulas, a solved example, and GATE-style questions (MCQ, MSQ and NAT) whose numerical answers are recomputed by a program when the site is built.

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1Laws of Thermodynamics

  1. Thermodynamic Systems and the First LawSystems, properties, state and processes, work and heat, the first law for closed systems and steady-flow devices (nozzles, turbines, compressors, throttles) with solved examples.
  2. Second Law, Entropy and AvailabilityKelvin-Planck and Clausius statements, heat engines, refrigerators and heat pumps, Carnot efficiency, Clausius inequality, entropy change, and availability (exergy) and irreversibility.

2Properties

  1. Properties of Pure Substances and Ideal GasesPhase change, p-v and T-s diagrams, saturation, dryness fraction, using steam tables, ideal gas equation, compressibility factor and processes of ideal gases.

3Power Cycles

  1. Rankine Cycle and Steam Power PlantsThe Rankine cycle on the T-s diagram, pump and turbine work, thermal efficiency, effects of pressure and superheat, reheat and regeneration, and steam rate.
  2. Gas Power Cycles and IC EnginesAir-standard Otto, Diesel, dual and Brayton cycles, their efficiencies and comparisons, mean effective pressure, IC engine performance, and gas turbine improvements.

4Applications

  1. Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and PsychrometryVapour compression refrigeration cycle and COP, refrigerants, air refrigeration, psychrometric properties (humidity ratio, relative humidity, dew point, wet bulb) and air-conditioning processes.