Total and Specific Quantities

 In most of the thermodynamic analyses, the terms 'Total' and 'Specific' quantities are used which relates only to extensive properties.

TOTAL AND SPECIFIC QUANTITIES

In most of the thermodynamic analyses, the terms 'Total' and 'Specific' quantities are used which relates only to extensive properties.

Total quantity refers to the entire quantity a thermodynamic system contained within it. A total quantity is always denoted by an upper case letter such as V for volume (m3) and H for enthalpy (J).

A specific property is obtained by dividing an extensive property of a system by its mass. It represents the quantity per kg. Such properties are always designated by lower case letters such as v for specific volume (m3/kg) and h for specific enthalpy (J/kg).