The teaching of thermodynamics today

Abstract

Although there are several robust theories of ‘thermodynamics’ operating very successfully over a range of different disciplines, for example, biology, chemistry, geoscience, quantum theory, astrophysics and numerous associated technologies, there are still no unifying foundations for this most important branch of science. Yet, most elementary thermodynamics is taught from an unjustifiable assumption of consistency and certainty. The current inconsistencies that permeate the science community’s thinking about ‘heat’ first appear at the time of Kelvin. This chapter traces some of the early attempts to formulate a theory of ‘heat’ and indicates a way in which we can improve our approach to the teaching of elementary thermodynamics by attempting to empathise with Kelvin’s perspective.