First law of thermodynamics
The change in internal energy is equal to the heat absorbed minus the external work done by the system.
symbols, variables and units
ΔU, Q, W: energy (J); Q>0 means endothermic, W>0 means external work.
applicable conditions and boundaries
closed system, macroscopic kinetic energy and potential energy changes are separately accounted for; clear symbol conventions.
formula source code
The following is a copyable LaTeX expression.
\Delta U=Q-W
Reference and Extended Learning
OpenStax · University Physics Volume 2 ↗is organized according to model definition and assumptions. Please check actual conditions and original literature before engineering, research and clinical use.
first lawEnergy Conservation