Thermodynamics Of Natural Systems Theory And Applications In Geochemistry And Environmental Science

Fully updated, this streamlined new textbook is an accessible introduction to thermodynamics for Earth and environmental scientists, emphasising real-world problems.

Thermodynamics deals with energy levels and the transfer of energy between states of matter, and is therefore fundamental to all branches of science. This new edition provides a relatively advanced treatment of the subject, specifically tailored for the interests of the Earth sciences. The first four chapters explain all necessary concepts, using a simple graphical approach. Throughout the rest of the book the author emphasizes the use of thermodynamics to construct mathematical simulations of real systems. This helps to make the many abstract concepts acceptable. Many computer programs are mentioned and used throughout the text, especially SUPCRT92, a widely used source of thermodynamic data. An associated website includes links to useful information sites and computer programs and problem sets. Building on the more elementary material in the first edition, this textbook will be ideal for advanced undergraduate and graduate students in geology, geochemistry, geophysics and environmental science.

Thermodynamics deals with energy levels and the transfer of energy between states of matter, and is therefore fundamental to all branches of science. This edition provides a relatively advanced treatment of the subject, specifically tailored for the interests of the Earth sciences. The first four chapters explain all necessary concepts, using a simple graphical approach. Throughout the rest of the book the author emphasizes the use of thermodynamics to construct mathematical simulations of real systems. This helps to make the many abstract concepts acceptable. Many computer programs are mentioned and used throughout the text, especially SUPCRT92, a widely used source of thermodynamic data. An associated website includes links to useful information sites and computer programs and problem sets. Building on the more elementary material in the first edition, this textbook will be ideal for advanced undergraduate and graduate students in geology, geochemistry, geophysics and environmental science.

Encyclopedia of Geology, Second Edition presents in six volumes state-of-the-art reviews on the various aspects of geologic research, all of which have moved on considerably since the writing of the first edition. New areas of discussion include extinctions, origins of life, plate tectonics and its influence on faunal provinces, new types of mineral and hydrocarbon deposits, new methods of dating rocks, and geological processes. Users will find this to be a fundamental resource for teachers and students of geology, as well as researchers and non-geology professionals seeking up-to-date reviews of geologic research. Provides a comprehensive and accessible one-stop shop for information on the subject of geology, explaining methodologies and technical jargon used in the field Highlights connections between geology and other physical and biological sciences, tackling research problems that span multiple fields Fills a critical gap of information in a field that has seen significant progress in past years Presents an ideal reference for a wide range of scientists in earth and environmental areas of study

In several fields of science, the equation E = mc2 is not of commun use in practice, although it can be mentioned as being of general interest. Thermodynamics is one of them and this peculiarity is associated with two others, constituting an interesting trilogy that can be summarized as follows: 1st Peculiarity: It is not inadvertently that the equation E = mc2 is generally absent from thermodynamics textbooks, but because it is classically admitted that this equation seems unnecessary in this specialty and can therefore be deliberately omitted. 2nd Peculiarity: The main reason for this conclusion is that the theoretical predictions obtained by the conventional approach of thermodynamics are generally in good agreement with the results experimentally observed. As a logical conclusion, the usual equations of thermodynamics are considered adequate. 3rd Peculiarity: Despite the relevance of this argument, it is a matter of fact that understanding thermodynamics is known to be difficult and this situation is mentioned in the preface of many books dealing with the subject. This is sometimes followed by complementary information saying that after some practice this impression disappears.

Based on a university course, this book provides an exposition of a large spectrum of geological, geochemical and geophysical problems that are amenable to thermodynamic analysis. It also includes selected problems in planetary sciences, relationships between thermodynamics and microscopic properties, particle size effects, methods of approximation of thermodynamic properties of minerals, and some kinetic ramifications of entropy production. The textbook will enable graduate students and researchers alike to develop an appreciation of the fundamental principles of thermodynamics, and their wide ranging applications to natural processes and systems.

The book presents a consistent and complete ecosystem theory based on thermodynamic concepts. The first chapters are devoted to an interpretation of the first and second law of thermodynamics in ecosystem context. Then Prigogine's use of far from equilibrium thermodynamic is used on ecosystems to explain their reactions to perturbations. The introduction of the concept exergy makes it possible to give a more profound and comprehensive explanation of the ecosystem's reactions and growth-patterns. A tentative fourth law of thermodynamic is formulated and applied to facilitate these explanations. The trophic chain, the global energy and radiation balance and pattern and the reactions of ecological networks are all explained by the use of exergy. Finally, it is discussed how the presented theory can be applied more widely to explain ecological observations and rules, to assess ecosystem health and to develop ecological models.