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IB Physics HL · B.4 Thermodynamics

Heat engines and the second law for IB Physics HL

Heat engines and the second law is mapped to B.4 Thermodynamics in the IB Physics HL pathway. Use this public guide to see exactly where the concept fits, what to master, and which GioPhysics resource continues the study sequence.

B · The particulate nature of matterHL onlyGuide 2 of 3

Where this fits

B.4 Thermodynamics

Curriculum
IB Physics HL
Theme or group
The particulate nature of matter
Current framework
First assessment 2025

The first law and gas processes are here; heat engines, the second law, and entropy continue in the same chapter.

Mastery checklist

Know what success looks like.

  1. 01

    Define the system and distinguish temperature, internal energy, and transferred energy.

  2. 02

    Connect the macroscopic process to a particle or molecular explanation.

  3. 03

    Use an energy balance with consistent signs, units, and process assumptions.

Exam lens

Build, apply, check.

B.4 Thermodynamics is identified as HL only in this curriculum map. Build the concept first, then practise selecting a model, showing working, and checking the final result.

Teaching sequence

B.4 Thermodynamics

This syllabus point maps to 3 ordered concept guides.

  1. 01The first law and gas processes
  2. 02Heat engines and the second lawCurrent guide
  3. 03Entropy and irreversibility

Continue on GioPhysics

Choose the right next step.

The curriculum context stays public. Lesson and presentation access follows the existing GioPhysics membership rules.

LearnOpen the mapped lessonHeat engines and the second lawTeachOpen the presentationClassroom sequence for this conceptPractiseOpen problem applicationsEasy through expert problem pathwaysPlanOpen the full curriculum mapIB Diploma Programme Physics