An analogy, which has been drawn between black hole physics and thermodynamics, is mathematically broadened in this article. Equations similar to the standard partial differential relations of thermodynamics are found for black holes. The results can be used to supplement an undergraduate thermodynamics course. (Author/SK)

Establishes and illustrates a formal analogy between the motion of a particle and the "motion" of the equilibrium state of a homogeneous system in a quasistatic process. The purpose is to show that there is a much larger set of natural coordinate transformations in thermodynamics. (GA)

Presents a simplified derivation of the equilibrium distribution functions. The derivation proceeds from the change in the Helmholtz free energy when a particle is added to a system of fixed temperature, volume, and chemical potential. The derivations show the relationship between statistical mechanics and macroscopic thermodynamics. (Author/GA)

This study recalculates outdated values for thermochemical radii using more reliable and elaborate calculations of lattice energy and recently obtained ancillary thermodynamic data. (BT)

Discusses the concepts involved in constructing a meaningful free energy plot for a chemical reaction and how these concepts are sometimes insufficiently represented in textbooks. (MLH)

Basic chemical thermodynamics usually treats non-p,T reactions in a stepmotherly fashion. This paper covers the main aspects of the theoretical principles of reactions (p,T; V,T; p,H; and V,U) and offers results from the ABC computer program, which was designed to show the validity of the equilibrium theory to all types of reaction modes. (PVD)

Reports on an investigation of student understanding of the first law of thermodynamics. Involves students from a first-year university physics course and a second-year thermal physics course. Focuses on the ability of students to relate the first law to the adiabatic physics course. Discusses implications for thermal physics and mechanics…

Fire-fighting considerations teachers may want to raise with students in physics classes are discussed. Concepts involved in extinguishing fires and the operation of fire equipment are detailed. (CW)

Generated are over 70 chemical reactions which constitutes a minicourse in descriptive chemistry and is designed to help foster "chemical literacy". Both aqueous and nonaqueous chemical reactions are discussed. (KR)

Establishes a theoretical basis for both understanding and testing the molecular level assumptions in mixtures. Considers activity coefficient models and equation of state mixing rules. (YP)

Presents two classroom activities that help students visualize the concept of entropy and appreciate that entropy tends to increase spontaneously. Contains 20 references. (WRM)

Argues that it is advantageous to adopt a more modern approach that systematically builds on students' knowledge of the atomic structure of matter and elementary mechanics. (Author/CCM)

Teachers' failure to use the microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL) more widely may be a result of not recognizing its capacity to transform laboratory activities. This research aimed to increase understanding of how MBL activities designed to be consistent with a constructivist theory of learning support or constrain student construction of…

In this article, the author features "the sidewalk project" in Littleton High School. The sidewalk project is a collaboration of more than 40 high school physics students, 10 local mentors, and a few regional and national organizations who worked together to invent a way to heat a sidewalk with an alternative energy source. The project, which…

This paper describes the use of interactive, Physlet[R]-based curricular material designed to help students learn concepts of thermodynamics with a particular focus on the use of kinetic theory models. These exercises help students visualize ideal gas particle dynamics and engine cycles, make concrete connections between mechanics and…