Presents a unique, stepwise exergy-based approach to thermodynamic concepts, systems, and applications Thermodynamics: A Smart Approach redefines this crucial branch of engineering as the science of energy and exergy—rather than the science of energy and entropy—to provide an innovative, step-by-step approach for teaching, understanding, and practicing thermodynamics in a clearer and easier way. Focusing primarily on the concepts and balance equations,this innovative textbook covers exergy under the second law of thermodynamics, discusses exergy matters, and relates thermodynamics to environmental impact and sustainable development in a clear, simple and understandable manner. It aims to change the way thermodynamics is taught and practiced and help overcome the fear of thermodynamics. Author Ibrahim Dincer, a pioneer in the areas of thermodynamics and sustainable energy technologies, draws upon his multiple decades of experience teaching and researching thermodynamics to offer a unique exergy-based approach to the subject. Enabling readers to easily comprehend and apply thermodynamic principles, the text organizes thermodynamics into seven critical steps—property, state, process, cycle, first law of thermodynamics, second law of thermodynamics and performance assessment—and provides extended teaching tools for systems and applications. Precise, student-friendly chapters cover fundamental concepts, thermodynamic laws, conventional and innovative power and refrigeration cycles, and more. This textbook: Covers a unique approach in teaching design, analysis and assessment of thermodynamic systems Provides lots of examples for every subject for students and instructors Contains hundreds of illustrations, figures, and tables to better illustrate contents Includes many conceptual questions and study problems Features numerous systems related examples and practical applications Thermodynamics: A Smart Approach is an ideal textbook for undergraduate students and graduate students of engineering and applied science, as well researchers, scientists, and practicing engineers seeking a precise and concise textbook and/or reference work.