Unit 3: Thermodynamics

     It's time to move to another important branch of physics that again deals with motion, but this time the motion of the microscopic atoms and molecules (ie., particles) that are contained in the macroscopic objects around us.  We begin with an indepth discussion of kinetic theory and its usefulness in relating the behavior of particles to macroscopic measurements made on an ideal gas. We then move on to the concept of heat and its  association with the motions of these tiny entities that make up your desk, your computer and even your body.  Finally, we will study the Laws of Thermodynamics...and after you know them well, your world will never look the same.

Suggested timeframe: 5 weeks

Big Ideas:
•The behavior of microscopic particles helps inthe understanding of macroscopic phenomena.
•Laws of conservation of certain properties of systems restrict the manner in which systems can change due to interactions.
•Insight into the behavior of complex systems is gained by using the mathematics of probability.