Thermodynamics Resources

Videos

BBC: How a sandcastle reveals the end of all things – Wonders of the Universe

Entropy via sandcastles: children of all ages channel their inner preschooler to probe the Second Law of Thermodynamics.

Michio Kaku and Morgan Freeman Explain Entropy

The Second Law of Thermodynamics is a death sentence for our planet. Listen to Morgan Freeman spell out our doom. It's more horrifying than a horror flick.

Numberphile: Avogadro's Number

Ever wanted to know more about Avogadro's number and its history? Well here you go. This video would be great for a Chemistry class as well, because it explains molecular mass and molecular weight and how these relate to moles, all by a chemist with an Einsteinian 'do.

Ted Talk: The history of the world in 18 minutes

David Christian summarizes everything we just learned about, from laws of thermodynamics, to phases and molecular motion. We also get to see how, at the beginning of the universe, mass aggregated to form atoms, how atoms came together to form stars, new elements, rocks, asteroids, planets, people, cars, computers, and a couple other things besides. For reals.

The rubber band heat engine

As improbable as it sounds, we can make a heat engine out of a bicycle wheel, rubber bands, and some flood lights. As a bonus, learn what's so extra-special about rubber bands in a thermodynamic sense; we're not talking about their shooting range.

Websites

National Geographic: How to layer for optimal comfort

Do you snowboard or ski? Or backpack, run, or Zumba? This cool explanation details how our skin keeps our bodies from overheating and how fancy workout gear aids that process.

Science Daily: Power felt

A device that takes body heat to power a cell phone? And car waste heat to power the radio? Far out (but maybe not too far).

Games and Tools

Nasa: Temperature conversions

A chance to master the Celsius, Fahrenheit and Kelvin temperature scales, all while familiarizing ourselves with the temperatures of various space and earthly objects? We're game.

Quizlet: Thermodynmaics flash cards and study games

Get gaming for the ultimate thermodynamics review experience.