The First Law of Thermodynamics says:
Energy cannot be created or destroyed; it can only change form.
Simple formula:
Delta U = Q – W
- ΔU = change in internal energy
- Q = heat added to the system
- W = work done by the system
Simple idea:
- Heat added to a system increases its energy or is used to do work.
Example: Heating a gas in a piston: some energy heats the gas, some pushes the piston.