Lecture
This lecture explores the quantitative expression of mechanical work exchanged, the relationship between temperature change and heat exchange, and the historical evolution of the concept of heat from the 'caloric' fluid to the equivalence between mechanical work and heat. Key figures like Lavoisier, Davy, Thompson, and Mayer are discussed, along with their contributions to understanding the nature of heat and energy. The lecture also covers the experiments that led to the establishment of the mechanical equivalent of heat, highlighting the pivotal role of R. Mayer and J.P. Joule in determining this equivalence.