Does the first law of thermodynamics apply to the cosmological universe?

In summary, the first law of thermodynamics, also known as the law of conservation of energy, states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, but can only be transferred or converted from one form to another. This law applies to the entire universe, including the cosmos, and explains that the total energy of the universe is constant. However, it cannot explain the origin of the universe. The first law of thermodynamics also applies to the expansion of the universe, ensuring that the total energy remains constant. In relation to the second law of thermodynamics, which states that the total entropy of a closed system always increases over time, the first law ensures the constancy of energy while the second law explains the increase in disorder as the universe expands.
  • #1
aurorasky
7
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How can the conservation of energy be applied to the entire universe? How can we define the energy of the universe? Is this definition unique for different observers? What is the difference between the thermodynamics universe (system+environment) and the cosmological universe?
 
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  • #2
Thermodynamics is formulated for a special class of observers.

Take a look at chapter 27 of http://www.pma.caltech.edu/Courses/ph136/yr2006/text.html
 

1. What is the first law of thermodynamics?

The first law of thermodynamics, also known as the law of conservation of energy, states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, but can only be transferred or converted from one form to another.

2. How does the first law of thermodynamics apply to the cosmological universe?

The first law of thermodynamics applies to the entire universe, including the cosmos. This law states that the total energy of the universe is constant, meaning that energy cannot be created or destroyed within the universe.

3. Can the first law of thermodynamics explain the origin of the universe?

No, the first law of thermodynamics cannot explain the origin of the universe. This law only describes the conservation of energy within the universe, but does not address how the universe came into existence.

4. Does the first law of thermodynamics apply to the expansion of the universe?

Yes, the first law of thermodynamics applies to the expansion of the universe. This law states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, which means that the total energy of the expanding universe remains constant.

5. How does the first law of thermodynamics relate to the second law of thermodynamics in the context of the cosmological universe?

The second law of thermodynamics states that the total entropy (disorder) of a closed system always increases over time. In the context of the cosmological universe, the first law of thermodynamics ensures that the total energy of the universe remains constant, while the second law of thermodynamics explains the overall increase in entropy as the universe expands and becomes more disordered.

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