On the state principle of classical thermodynamics

Abstract

We discuss the state principle of classical thermodynamics, namely that the thermodynamic state of a simple compressible system can be uniquely determined by specifying two independent properties. We show that for certain combinations of properties, one is not guaranteed to arrive at a unique state. This caveat to the state principle is illustrated with three examples, two involving liquid water and a third using real gases. Finally, we show that to guarantee a unique state for a simple compressible system, the required two independent properties must be chosen from the trio consisting of a thermodynamic potential and its two natural variables.