The scope of application of continuum thermodynamics

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-1-2000

Abstract

The objective of this study is to address the ambiguities concerning the application of continuum thermodynamics. In particular, we consider the limitation imposed on this application by the values of the time and space derivatives of the process variables as well as the degree of process irreversibility. We discuss the distribution and the properties of the shock waves in a compressible fluid. Shock waves are one of the fastest phenomena, which occur in continuous systems. It is shown that the analysis of this phenomenon is based completely on the apparatus of continuum thermodynamics. At the same time, the characteristic equations, which determine the distribution of the shock waves, do not depend on process irreversibility. We also show that any modification of the Gibbs (fundamental) equation due the rate of the process, for example, violate the First and the Second Laws of thermodynamics. The analysis presented demonstrates that the only condition for the application of continuum thermodynamics is compliance with the continuum hypothesis.

Identifier

0039013787 (Scopus)

Publication Title

American Society of Mechanical Engineers Advanced Energy Systems Division Publication AES

First Page

445

Last Page

449

Volume

40

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