MCAT Physical

A comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of physics as tested on the MCAT, including mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, and more.

Kinematics and MotionForces and Newton's LawsWork, Energy, and PowerThermodynamics and Heat
Electricity and MagnetismFluids and PressureWaves, Sound, and LightAtomic and Nuclear Physics
Medical Imaging and DiagnosticsBiomechanics and Human MovementEnergy Use and Everyday Technology
Mastering MCAT Physics QuestionsTime Management and Guessing Smart
Kinematics and Motio...Forces and Newton's ...Work, Energy, and Po...Thermodynamics and H...Electricity and Magn...Fluids and PressureWaves, Sound, and Li...Atomic and Nuclear P...Medical Imaging and ...Biomechanics and Hum...Energy Use and Every...Mastering MCAT Physi...Time Management and ...
Basic Concepts

Thermodynamics and Heat

The Physics of Heat and Energy Flow

Thermodynamics studies how energy moves, especially as heat, and how it affects matter. It's all about laws that govern engines, weather, and even your body!

The Four Laws (Yes, Four!)

  • Zeroth Law: If A is as hot as B, and B is as hot as C, then A is as hot as C.
  • First Law: Energy can't be created or destroyed, just changed.
  • Second Law: Heat flows from hot to cold, and some energy always becomes unusable.
  • Third Law: You can't reach absolute zero (the coldest possible temperature).

Applications

  • Engines and refrigerators use these laws.
  • Your body keeps you warm through metabolism—a thermodynamic process!

MCAT Tips

Focus on energy conservation, heat transfer (conduction, convection, radiation), and entropy.

Examples

  • A car engine converts fuel into motion and heat.

  • Sweating cools your body by evaporating water (heat transfer).

In a Nutshell

Thermodynamics explains how energy is transferred and transformed, especially as heat.

Key Terms

Entropy
A measure of disorder or randomness in a system.
Conduction
Heat transfer through direct contact.
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Electricity and Magnetism
Thermodynamics and Heat - MCAT Physical Content | Practice Hub