Heat transfering from Cold to Hot?

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of heat transfer from a slower moving atom to a faster moving atom, contrary to the traditional understanding of heat flow. The concept is based on the idea that the most probable configurations, which maximize entropy, can result in a situation where the slower object gives heat to the faster one. This idea is supported by the concept of collisions between particles, where a slow moving atom can transfer energy to a faster moving one.
  • #1
azaharak
152
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Is it possible for heat to transfer from a colder atom (slower moving) to a hotter atom (faster moving)

I know that hot and cold are not really appropriate words to be using here.


My reasoning is from kittel thermal physics,

From an entropy standpoint,
The most probable configurations will dominate the statisical properties of the combined system, most probable confiigurations are ones that maxmimize the entropy.

For Large N, there is a sharp peak of configurations that have maximal entropy, but what about for small N?

Is it possble to conceive two small N systems where when combined, the maximal entropy corresponds to a situation where the colder object actually gives heat to the warmer object, opposite of the normal directional flow of heat?


Isn't is possible for a collision between a slow moving atom and a fast moving atom to result in the faster moving atom gaining more kinetic or thermal energy. From a probabilistic picture, this should technically be possible. Isn't this the same idea?


Thanks
 
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  • #2
Here's how a slow moving particle can give energy to a faster moving one:

http://4.media.tumblr.com/PrbyDnKQQk69dz9tpx8QZc1ao1_500.png
 
Last edited by a moderator:

1. How does heat transfer from cold to hot?

Heat always moves from a higher temperature to a lower temperature, so in order for heat to transfer from cold to hot, there must be a temperature difference between the two objects. This temperature difference causes heat to flow from the colder object to the hotter object until they reach equilibrium.

2. Is it possible for heat to transfer from cold to hot?

Yes, heat can transfer from cold to hot as long as there is a temperature difference between the two objects. This is the basic principle of heat transfer and is seen in many everyday scenarios, such as when you put ice cubes in a warm drink and the ice cubes melt.

3. What factors affect the rate of heat transfer from cold to hot?

The rate of heat transfer from cold to hot is affected by several factors, including the temperature difference between the two objects, the thermal conductivity of the materials, the surface area of the objects, and the distance between them. Other factors, such as the presence of a medium (such as air or water) and the type of heat transfer (conduction, convection, or radiation) also play a role.

4. Can heat transfer from cold to hot without any external influence?

No, heat transfer from cold to hot always requires a temperature difference between the two objects. However, this temperature difference can occur naturally, such as when two objects of different temperatures are in contact with each other or when heat is radiated from the sun onto the Earth's surface.

5. How is heat transferred from cold to hot in different scenarios?

The method of heat transfer from cold to hot can vary depending on the specific scenario. For example, in conduction, heat is transferred through direct contact between two objects. In convection, heat is transferred through the movement of fluids (liquids or gases). In radiation, heat is transferred through electromagnetic waves. Understanding these different methods of heat transfer is important in various fields, such as engineering and thermodynamics.

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