GED Science Practice

What does thermodynamics study?

1. a. Forms of nuclear energy

2. b. Weather patterns

3. c. Conversion of energy forms

4. d. Cellular structure

The correct answer is: c. Conversion of energy forms

Thermodynamics is the branch of physics that specifically studies the relationships between heat, work, temperature, and energy. The field focuses on how energy is converted from one form to another and the laws that govern these processes. For instance, thermodynamics examines phenomena such as how heat energy can be transformed into mechanical energy, as seen in steam engines, or how energy conservation affects chemical reactions. Other choices do not align with the primary focus of thermodynamics. The study of forms of nuclear energy involves concepts from nuclear physics, while weather patterns fall under meteorology. Cellular structure is related to biological sciences and cellular biology, neither of which address the principles and laws related to the energy transformations that thermodynamics entails. Therefore, the correct answer highlighting the core subject of how different energy forms are converted is indeed the study of thermodynamics.