Cognitive Improvement in Thermodynamic Functions With Calculus Chain Rule

Abstract

This research was motivated by the low ability of students to apply mathematical solution methods to thermodynamic functions. Thermodynamic functions are functions that consist of pressure, temperature, volume and enthalpy functions where changes in one function can occur due to changes in other functions. The aim of this research was to show the implementation of chain rules in thermodynamic function problems by relying on a process technique to improve students' cognitive awareness of thermodynamic functions. The place of this research was at the TD Pardede Institute of Science and Technology. The process of understanding chain rules is very impactful for understanding thermodynamic state functions. Differential decomposition of functions within functions is also described in the chain rule method. Thermodynamic functions which consist of pressure, temperature, volume and enthalpy functions can depend on each other so that the chain rule analysis method can be clearly used. With this method students will also be given the opportunity to connect one concept with other thermodynamic concepts. Apart from that, this method can be used anywhere. This shows a cognitive increase in terms of cognitive elements, cognitive structure and cognitive function.