Key Concept:
The two laws of thermodynamics are defined and applied universally.

Of all the laws of science, the laws of thermodynamics, particularly the first two, are the most important. These laws can be applied to the most enormous objects in the universe or to tiny invisible particles. They hold true for matter or energy, or both. A wide variety of conditions can be applied and the results will always be the same. The two laws of thermodynamics impact almost every branch of science. They were formally discovered around 200 years ago in the course of experiments with heat and its movement.

The Greek word for “thermodynamics” is composed of “therme” meaning heat and “dunamis” referring to power or energy. Energy is difficult to define because it cannot be seen and does not have mass. You can only observe its effects. You cannot see electricity, but you can see its effect when lightning strikes the earth. There are different kinds of energy—mechanical, chemical, electrical, magnetic, nuclear, heat and light. The most amazing phenomenon found while developing the steam engine during the Industrial Revolution is that heat energy can be transformed into mechanical and other kinds of energy (nuclear energy excepted). This prompted fresh insight into how all kinds of energy can be transferred from one form to another. As investigations continued, definite predictable patterns were formed. Mathematical relationships were discovered, giving birth to the most fundamental laws of science - The Laws of Thermodynamics.

These laws were developed by Lord William Thomson Kelvin (1824-1907), a devout Christian and creationist whose stature as a scientist rivals that of Newton. Lord Kelvin made numerous contributions to science including many inventions. He held 21 honorary doctorates. It is no surprise that he discovered these vital universal laws given his faith that the creation came from an infinite loving intelligent God.

The First Law of Thermodynamics states the amount of energy and matter remains constant. Matter or energy may change from one form to another but will always be conserved. Matter and energy can be neither created nor destroyed. This law is known as the Law of Conservation of matter and energy.

The Second Law of Thermodynamics holds that energy and matter have a universal tendency to go to disorder, a process known as entropy. The universe is basically running down in every form. Organization if let alone becomes disorganization. Energy must be added to the system to increase order and lower entropy.