Section 5 - Second Law of Thermodynamics

Question 1

Give the definition of a thermal energy reservoir and provide an example.

Answer 1

A hypothetical body with a relatively large thermal energy capacity that can supply or absorb finite amounts of heat without undergoing any change in temperature.

e.g. Large bodies of water, the atmosphere

Question 2

What’s the difference between a thermal source and a thermal sink?

Answer 2

Thermal source: A reservoir that [supplies] energy in the form of heat.

Thermal sink: A reservoir that [absorbs] energy in the form of heat.