Energy and Thermodynamics from edX

What is energy and why is it so important? How does chemistry inform energy efficiency and sustainability? Energy and Thermochemistry is an interdisciplinary, online course that introduces you to the concept of energy. Providing a foundational understanding of energy, this course shows you how energy at the molecular level forms the basis of nearly every scientific discussion of chemical, physical, and biological change.

In this course, you will cover three core concepts — energy, atoms and molecular structure, and thermodynamics. At the start of this course, you will learn about the different types of energy, including potential, kinetic, electrical, chemical, electromagnetic, thermal, and internal energy. You will examine Newton’s Second Law of Thermodynamics, the Joule apparatus, energy release and consumption, and energy and power scales. In the next section, you will move to the study of atoms, the building blocks of molecules, discovering electrons and the nucleus, atomic mass, and molecular structure. Finally, you’ll end the course learning about thermochemistry and the relationship between energy, heat transfer, and work, leading to an understanding of energy in a modern setting and how chemistry can inform energy efficiencies.

Through readings, videos, and case studies, these modules will help you to understand how energy flows through an economic structure. You will gain a deeper knowledge of the consumption of fossil fuels, conservation of energy, and, ultimately, how to build a sustainable energy future.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Describe the different forms of energy, such as mechanical (kinetic and potential), electrical, chemical, electromagnetic, thermal, and nuclear
Interpret the units of energy and power and how to convert between them
Understand different subatomic particles (proton, electron, neutron) and the major experiments that led to the modern concept of the atom and its structure

Recognize the nature of a chemical bond and compare and contrast the different methods of representing the chemical bonds in a molecule
Explain the second law of thermodynamics and apply it to chemical reactions
Gain an understanding of enthalpy, water condensation, geothermal energy, and thermodynamic pressure

Describe the different forms of energy, such as mechanical (kinetic and potential), electrical, chemical, electromagnetic, thermal, and nuclear
Interpret the units of energy and power and how to convert between them
Understand different subatomic particles (proton, electron, neutron) and the major experiments that led to the modern concept of the atom and its structure
Recognize the nature of a chemical bond and compare and contrast the different methods of representing the chemical bonds in a molecule
Explain the second law of thermodynamics and apply it to chemical reactions
Gain an understanding of enthalpy, water condensation, geothermal energy, and thermodynamic pressure

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Provides a solid foundation in energy concepts for learners looking to build a basis in this area

Builds a foundation in chemistry and thermodynamics, preparing learners for further study in these areas

Taught by an experienced instructor, James Anderson, recognized for their expertise in energy

May require additional background knowledge in physics and chemistry

Involves readings, videos, and case studies, providing diverse learning materials

Reviews summary

Too basic to be worthwhile

Learners say this course is too basic to be worthwhile and not worth taking if you have any high-school chemistry.

The material appears to be too easy for most.

"Way too basic."

"This course is too shallow not worth doing if you have any high-school chemistry course."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Energy and Thermodynamics with these activities:

Review Fundamental Chemistry Concepts

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To fully grasp the concepts in this course, you should have a strong foundation in fundamental chemistry.

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Review class notes, textbooks, and online resources from previous chemistry courses.
Complete practice problems and exercises.
Identify areas where you need additional support and seek help from a tutor or online forums.
Attend review sessions or workshops.

Unit Conversion Practice

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Units play a critical role in energy calculations. Mastering unit conversion will improve your accuracy and efficiency.

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Review the unit conversion factors for relevant quantities.
Practice converting units using dimensional analysis.
Complete practice problems and exercises involving unit conversions.

Review Nomenclature & Units

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Nomenclature and units serve as the language and grammar of chemistry, and a strong foundation here will help you throughout the course.

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Flip through chapters to review nomenclature and unit conventions.
Review lecture notes and slides on nomenclature and unit conversions.
Complete all practice problems and exercises in the course materials.
Solve questions posted in course forums.

Four other activities

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Solve Problems in Study Groups

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Collaborative learning can significantly enhance your problem-solving abilities.

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Form a study group with peers who have similar interests.
Work together to solve problems from assignments, quizzes, and exams.
Discuss different approaches and solutions.
Provide constructive feedback to each other.

Discuss Recent Research Articles

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Keeping up with the latest research is crucial for staying ahead in any field. This activity encourages you to engage with the academic community and stay informed.

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Review recent research articles related to the course topics.
Join or start a study group with peers.
Discuss the articles and exchange insights.
Summarize the key findings and implications.

Compile End-Of-Chapter Problems

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Resolving end-of-chapter questions exposes you to the types of questions that may appear on exams.

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Review the chapter and lecture notes.
Identify the questions you cannot answer from reviewing notes.
Compile all of the questions on one document.
Attempt to resolve the questions referencing course materials.

Apply Thermodynamics to Real-World Scenarios

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Thermodynamics is not just a set of abstract equations; it has many real-world applications. This activity helps you develop a deeper understanding of how it can be utilized.

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Identify a real-world scenario where thermodynamics principles apply.
Research the scenario.
Develop a thermodynamic model to explain the scenario.
Validate and refine your model.
Communicate your findings in a clear and concise manner.

Career center

Learners who complete Energy and Thermodynamics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Power Plant Operator

Power Plant Operators oversee the operation and maintenance of power plants. They ensure that power plants operate safely and efficiently, and that they meet environmental regulations. Energy and Thermodynamics can provide a foundation in energy concepts, especially the different forms of energy and their interconversions, that is crucial for a Power Plant Operator. Additionally, the course covers topics such as energy conversion and thermochemistry, which are relevant to this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Power Plant Operator

Energy Engineer

Energy Engineers design, develop, and implement energy-saving solutions for buildings, communities, and organizations. They conduct energy audits, analyze energy consumption, and identify ways to improve energy efficiency and reduce costs. Energy and Thermodynamics can provide the foundation in energy concepts, especially about the different forms of energy and their interconversions, that is crucial for success in the field of Energy Engineering.

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Nuclear Engineer

Nuclear Engineers design, develop, and operate nuclear power plants and other nuclear facilities. They work to ensure that these facilities are safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly. Energy and Thermodynamics can provide a foundation in energy concepts, especially nuclear energy, that is important in Nuclear Engineering. The course also covers topics such as energy conversion and thermochemistry, which are relevant to the field.

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Wind Turbine Technician

Wind Turbine Technicians install, maintain, and repair wind turbines. They work to ensure that wind turbines operate safely and efficiently, and that they meet environmental regulations. Energy and Thermodynamics can provide a foundation in energy concepts, especially the different forms of energy and their interconversions, that is crucial for a Wind Turbine Technician. Additionally, the course covers topics such as energy conversion and thermochemistry, which are relevant to this field.

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Solar Panel Installer

Solar Panel Installers design, install, and maintain solar power systems. They work to ensure that solar power systems operate safely and efficiently, and that they meet environmental regulations. Energy and Thermodynamics can provide a foundation in energy concepts, especially the different forms of energy and their interconversions, that is crucial for a Solar Panel Installer. Additionally, the course covers topics such as energy conversion and thermochemistry, which are relevant to this field.

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Process Engineer

Process Engineers design, develop, and improve industrial processes. They work to optimize processes for efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Energy and Thermodynamics can provide a foundational understanding of energy at the molecular level, a topic that can be directly applicable to the work of a Process Engineer. Knowledge of the forms of energy, energy conversion, and especially thermochemistry may be highly useful.

See salaries and explore the career path for Process Engineer

Chemical Engineer

Chemical Engineers often work to improve processes that involve chemical transformations or energy transfer. They apply the principles of chemistry, physics, and mathematics to the design, operation, and maintenance of chemical plants, refineries, and other facilities. Energy and Thermodynamics can provide a foundational understanding of energy at the molecular level, a topic that often directly impacts chemical processes and energy transfer. Knowledge of the forms of energy, energy conversion, and especially thermochemistry may be highly useful to a Chemical Engineer.

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Petroleum Engineer

Petroleum Engineers design, develop, and operate oil and gas wells. They work to extract oil and gas from the earth in a safe and efficient manner. Energy and Thermodynamics can provide a foundational understanding of energy at the molecular level, a topic that is often directly applicable to the work of a Petroleum Engineer. Knowledge of the forms of energy, energy conversion, and especially thermochemistry may be highly useful in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Petroleum Engineer

Sustainability Consultant

Sustainability Consultants help organizations to improve their environmental performance. They develop and implement strategies to reduce energy consumption, waste production, and greenhouse gas emissions. Energy and Thermodynamics can provide a foundation in energy concepts, especially energy efficiency and the environmental impact of energy consumption, that is important for Sustainability Consultants. The course covers topics such as the different forms of energy, energy conversion, and thermochemistry, which are all relevant to sustainability.

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Science Teacher

Science Teachers teach science at the elementary, secondary, or college level. They develop lesson plans, conduct experiments, and assess student learning. Energy and Thermodynamics can provide a foundation in energy concepts that is important for Science Teachers, especially those who teach chemistry or physics. The course covers topics such as the different forms of energy, energy conversion, and thermochemistry, which are all relevant to science education.

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Research Scientist

Research Scientists conduct research in a variety of fields, including energy, chemistry, and physics. They develop new knowledge and technologies, and they work to solve important problems. Energy and Thermodynamics can provide a foundational understanding of energy at the molecular level, a topic that can be directly applicable to the work of a Research Scientist in many fields. Knowledge of the forms of energy, energy conversion, and especially thermochemistry may be highly useful.

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Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists study the environment and work to protect it. They conduct research, monitor environmental conditions, and develop solutions to environmental problems. Energy and Thermodynamics can help build a foundation in energy efficiency and the environmental impact of energy consumption, which are both relevant topics for Environmental Scientists.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create technical documentation, such as user manuals, white papers, and training materials. They work to communicate complex technical information in a clear and concise manner. Energy and Thermodynamics can provide a foundational understanding of energy at the molecular level, a topic that can be directly applicable to the work of a Technical Writer in many fields. Knowledge of the forms of energy, energy conversion, and especially thermochemistry may be highly useful.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer