Thermodynamics 101

Today, class, we are going to talk about the exothermic process - a chemical reaction which results in a release of energy in the form of either heat, light, sound, or electricity. Why am I thinking of physics right now? Because of my husband. The Ty-man is exothermic.

Here's the theorem/equation/solution.

Ty-man is, of course, a man. Men eat food and take in oxygen as humans are wont to do. Therefore, after the digestion of food and cellular respiration, the exothermic reaction takes place.

Now, once the food is consumed and digestion begins, the first sign of the exothermic process is heard rather than seen or felt. The Ty-man produces gas and one hears a loud belch. The release of energy in the form of sound has been fulfilled. Later, he will retire to the basement to tinker with his electronic equipment or computer. Making sure the home theater receiver is set to the proper levels, that the projector is in working order, or that another DVD has been ripped to the server, Ty-man completes the second requirement of an exothermic process: electricity.

Now, we move along to the release of light. After nagging him for weeks about changing the light bulbs on the landing and at the bottom of the stairs (in the kitchen), Ty-man trudges up to the laundry room, retrieves the necessary tools, and finally brings forth light from dark. The third of four signs of an exothermic process comes forth.

And finally, to bed. With the AC cranked up, the ceiling fan on, and skimpy jammies in place, I throw off the covers because my husband, the furnace, as decided to snuggle up to me. The release of energy in the form of heat has just been fulfilled.

Ty-man + food + oxygen = belches/electronics tinkering/handyman/heat = Exothermic process

Class is finished. Please turn in your reports on "Why CMG is Endothermic." Next week we'll be discussing rocket science. Pop quiz in the morning. That is all!