MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)

Thermodynamics

7 snips
Jan 7, 2025
Dive into the fascinating world of thermodynamics and its impact on chemistry and biology. Discover the four laws of thermodynamics and understand key concepts like enthalpy, entropy, and Gibbs Free Energy. Explore the differences between kinetics and thermodynamics with relatable examples, including the transition from diamond to graphite. Learn about the three types of heat transfer—conduction, convection, and radiation—and how they apply to everyday situations. Perfect insights for those preparing for the MCAT!
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ANECDOTE

Diamond to Graphite Reaction

  • The reaction of diamond converting to graphite is spontaneous but extremely slow.
  • It would take about 10 billion years for this reaction to complete, illustrating the difference between kinetics and thermodynamics.
INSIGHT

Zeroth Law and Equilibrium

  • The zeroth law explains thermal equilibrium using the transitive property.
  • If system X is in equilibrium with Y, and Y with Z, then X is with Z too.
ADVICE

First Law MCAT Tips

  • Remember delta U = Q + W for first law of thermodynamics problems.
  • Use W = P delta V for calculating work under constant pressure.
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