ScienceJuly 10, 2026
thermodynamics
/ˌθɜːrməʊdaɪˈnæmɪks/
Definition
The branch of physical science that deals with the relations between heat and other forms of energy, currently undergoing significant theoretical re-evaluation.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek words 'therme' (heat) and 'dynamis' (power). It was coined in the 19th century to describe the power derived from heat engines.
In the news
The word appears in a list of popular articles, noting that the fundamental mathematical laws governing thermodynamics are being reconsidered after two centuries of accepted use.
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