thermodynamic equilibrium: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Not exactly. A steady state has constant properties over time but may require continuous energy/matter flow to maintain it (e.g., a house at constant temperature with the heating on). Thermodynamic equilibrium is a specific steady state with no such flows; it's self-maintaining in isolation.

Yes. For example, molecules in a gas at uniform temperature are in thermodynamic equilibrium while moving randomly at high speeds. Equilibrium refers to the statistical balance of energies, not the absence of microscopic motion.

It provides a benchmark and simplifying assumption. Engineers often design systems to operate near equilibrium (like heat exchangers) or use equilibrium calculations (like phase diagrams) to predict material behaviour under different conditions.

No. The Earth is in a steady state far from thermodynamic equilibrium. It receives a constant flux of high-energy solar radiation and emits low-energy infrared radiation, maintaining a temperature gradient that drives all weather and climate processes.

A state in which a thermodynamic system has no net change in its macroscopic properties (e.

Thermodynamic equilibrium is usually technical/scientific in register.

Thermodynamic equilibrium: in British English it is pronounced /ˌθɜː.məʊ.daɪˌnæ.mɪk ˌiː.kwɪˈlɪb.ri.əm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌθɝː.moʊ.daɪˌnæ.mɪk ˌiː.kwəˈlɪb.ri.əm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.