Why do elephants have big ears? How can an umbrella keep warm even when it’s not raining?

Physics of heat provide an answer, and have a tremendous impact on everything around us – from power plants and engines to building heating, air conditioning, and even body thermoregulation in cold weather.

In this course, we will learn how to apply theoretical knowledge of thermodynamics to practical problems, such as designing an energy-efficient house, a thermal engine, or a power plant. We will also explore heat exchangers – devices that you may have never heard of, yet they are some of the most important components in many technological fields. Near the end, we will also lay our hands on specialised software, to help you model practical systems around you, all in a fun, light-hearted way with lots of space for your questions.

Course Topics:
1. Basic Thermodynamic Quantities and Laws – Introducing basic terminology and laws, made more engaging with practical examples.
2. Thermal Engines – We’ll learn how thermal engines work and attempt to design one.
3. Power Plants and an Overview of the Energy Sector – Understanding how power plants work and how different types of power plants work together to provide us with electricity all year long.
4. Heat Exchangers – Learn how they work and why they are crucial in many technological fields.
5. Thermal Insulation, Heat Pumps, and Air Conditioning – Designing an energy-efficient building.
6. Demonstration of Calculations Using Differential Equations and Specialized Software