How is enthalpy defined in thermodynamics?

Enthalpy is defined as a thermodynamic quantity that represents the total heat content of a system. It incorporates both the internal energy of the system and the product of its pressure and volume. This relationship accounts for the energy required to create a system while also considering the work done by the system against its surroundings.

In practical terms, enthalpy is particularly useful in processes involving heat transfer, such as chemical reactions occurring at constant pressure. The change in enthalpy during a process indicates the heat absorbed or released, making it a critical component in evaluating the energy dynamics of systems in thermodynamic studies. Understanding enthalpy is essential for predicting how systems will behave during physical and chemical changes.