Quantum Physics Can Be Understood in Terms of Classical Thermodynamics

Abstract

Quantum physics can be understood in terms of classical thermodynamics, which is already considered to be a complete field. However, inconsistencies in classical thermodynamics have been discovered in the area of solid-oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). The use of samarium-doped ceria (SDC) electrolytes in SOFCs lowers the open-circuit voltage (OCV) below the Nernst voltage (Vth). The low OCV is calculated with Wagner’s equation, included in the Nernst-Planck equation, which is based on the first and second thermodynamic laws. Experimental and theoretical limitations of Wagner’s equation have been discovered. Considering the separation of the Boltzmann distribution and Maxwell’s Demon, only carrier species having sufficient energy to overcome the activation energy can contribute to current conduction, as determined by incorporating different constants in the definitions of the chemical and electrical potentials. This means that an additional thermodynamic law is needed. Furthermore, quantum physics can be explained by the additional thermodynamic law.