Is "energetics" the same as "thermodynamics"?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies that "energetics" is often viewed as a generalization of thermodynamics, though its reliability as a term is questioned. Participants noted that "energetics" is not commonly found in textbooks and may be considered outdated. The term "bio-energetics," referenced in Nick Lane's book "The Vital Question: Why Is Life The Way It Is?", distinguishes itself from thermodynamics by focusing less on heat energy. Overall, the consensus suggests that while related, "energetics" and "thermodynamics" are not synonymous.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermodynamics principles
  • Familiarity with the term "bio-energetics" and its context
  • Knowledge of energy forms and their classifications
  • Basic research skills for evaluating scientific terminology
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the differences between thermodynamics and energetics
  • Explore the concept of bio-energetics in biological systems
  • Read Nick Lane's "The Vital Question: Why Is Life The Way It Is?"
  • Investigate the historical context and evolution of the term "energetics"
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, biology, and environmental science, as well as anyone interested in the distinctions between energy concepts in scientific literature.

bunchie
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If so, why do people use the word "energetics"?
 
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Where did you see the term "energetics" used?
 
Doc Al said:
Where did you see the term "energetics" used?
The Wikipedia article on "energetics" states it as a sort of generalization of thermodynamics. However, it is in big need for further contributions and doesn't look very reliable. It doesn't even exist in my language.
 
fresh_42 said:
The Wikipedia article on "energetics" states it as a sort of generalization of thermodynamics.
Yes, I saw that and dismissed it as junk. "Energetics" might be an old-fashioned term. I've not seen it in any textbook I've used.
 
Doc Al said:
Yes, I saw that and dismissed it as junk. "Energetics" might be an old-fashioned term. I've not seen it in any textbook I've used.
It might as well be a very modern term: Googling it gave me a lot of sports wear and related stuff! :smile: But Google is country sensitive ...
 
The word "bio-energetics" is used by Nick Lane in his book, "The Vital Question: Why Is Life The Way It Is?", that Bill Gates is reading or has read.
 
I think it's because "bio-energetics" doesn't involve heat a lot, which "thermodynamics" seems to imply is the most important form of energy?
 

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