Thermodynamics for the MCAT: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction to Thermodynamics

• Thermodynamics is crucial for understanding other MCAT topics.
• Thermodynamics is foundational in chemistry and physical chemistry.
• Important to create personal definitions and examples of terms.

Part 1: Heat

• Heat vs Temperature:
  • Heat: Transfer of energy due to temperature difference.
  • Temperature: Average energy due to motion of particles.

Heat Capacity and Specific Heat

• Heat Capacity: Heat needed to raise an object's temperature by a unit.
  • Units: Joules (J)/Kelvin (K).
  • Specific Heat: Heat needed to raise the temperature of 1g of a substance by 1 degree K or C.

Heat of Transformation

• Refers to energy required for phase changes (e.g., ice to water).
  • During phase changes, temperature doesn't change.
  • Equation: q = mL, where:
    • q: heat gained or lost
    • m: mass
    • L: latent heat

Part 3: The Four Laws of Thermodynamics

• Zeroth Law: Thermal equilibrium concepts.
• First Law: Energy conservation principle.
• Second Law: Entropy increase.
• Third Law: As temperature approaches absolute zero, entropy approaches a constant.

Part 4: Thermodynamic Functions, Systems, and Processes

• Types of Functions: State and path functions.
• Types of Systems: Open, closed, isolated.
• Types of Processes: Isothermal, adiabatic, isobaric, isochoric.

Part 5: High-yield Terms and Equations

• Essential terms and equations for MCAT thermodynamics.

Part 6: Thermodynamics Practice Passage

• Designed to mimic MCAT-style questions.

Part 7: Practice Problems and Answers

• Provides practice problems with solutions to reinforce concepts.

Additional Resources

• Daily MCAT question offers continued practice.
• Encourages engagement with expert MCAT tutoring.

This guide offers a detailed overview of thermodynamics necessary for MCAT preparation, emphasizing understanding and applying key concepts and laws.