First Law of Thermodynamics

The First Law of Thermodynamics calculator computes the total change of energy in a system based on the heat exchanged from the surroundings and the work done by the system.

INSTRUCTIONS: Choose units and enter the following:

• (q) Heat Exchanged with Surroundings
• (w) Work done by or on the System

Total Change in Energy (ΔU):  The calculator returns the change in energy in joules. However this can be automatically converted to compatible units via the pull-down menu.

The Math / Science

The first law of thermodynamics is often called the Law of Conservation of Energy.This law suggests that Energy can be changed from one form to another, but it cannot be created or destroyed. The total amount of energy and matter in the Universe remains constant, merely changing from one form to another. The First Law of Thermodynamics (Conservation) states that energy is always conserved, it cannot be created or destroyed. In essence, energy can be converted from one form into another.

The equation that supports the First Law of Thermodynamics mathematically is:

   ΔU=q+w

where:

•  ΔU is the total change in internal energy of a system
• q is the heat exchanged between a system and its surroundings
• w is the work done by or on the system

Work and Energy Calculators

• Internal Energy of an Ideal Gas
• Internal Energy
• Change in Internal Energy
• Work
• R - Gas Constant
• Ideal Gas Law
• Sackur-Tetrode Equation
• First Law of Thermodynamics