Thermodynamic availability functions can be viewed graphically, providing valuable unexpected insights into the nature and meaning of the functions. As a demonstration, the following question is explored and discussed: "What is the maximum work a system can perform in moving into equilibrium with the temperature and pressure of its…

Discusses the principle of nonisothermal kinetics and some of the factors involved in such reactions, especially when considering the reliability of the kinetic parameters, compared to those of isothermal conditions. (GA)

Analyzes three examples of spatial Bose-Einstein condensations in which the particles macroscopically occupy the lowest localized state of an inhomogeneous external potential. The three cases are (1) a box with a small square potential well inside, (2) a harmonic oscillator potential, and (3) randomly sized trapping potentials caused by…

Discusses low temperature heat transfer, transient heat transfer, and developments in steady state heat transfer. (SK)

Reviews some important properties of the bimolecular reaction between the hydroxyl radical and carbon monoxide. Investigates the kinetics of the reaction, the temperature and pressure dependence of the rate constant, the state-to-state dynamics of the reaction, and the reverse reaction. (MVL)

Suggests an apparatus to improve the measurement of the mechanical equivalent of heat. Describes the materials needed to construct the apparatus; the methodology of an experiment to measure the heat gained by lead shot falling through a distance of 100 meters; and the calculations made to register that gain. (MDH)

This concept module on force is one of thirteen modules that provide a flexible, laboratory-based physics instructional package designed to meet the specialized needs of students in two-year, postsecondary technical schools. Each of the thirteen concept modules discusses a single physics concept and how it is applied to each energy system. This…