Irreversible processes are physical or chemical changes that cannot be reversed, meaning that the system cannot return to its original state. This is due to the loss of usable energy or an increase in entropy.
Examples of irreversible processes include combustion, diffusion, and the mixing of two gases. These processes result in a net increase in entropy and cannot be reversed without external intervention.
No, irreversible processes cannot be reversed without external intervention. Even with infinite time, the system will not spontaneously return to its original state due to the increase in entropy.
Irreversible processes are considered absolute because they violate the second law of thermodynamics, which states that the total entropy of a closed system will always increase over time. This means that even with infinite time, the process cannot be reversed.
Yes, there are a few exceptions to the irreversibility of processes. Some processes, such as phase transitions, can be reversed under specific conditions. However, these exceptions are limited and do not change the overall concept of irreversibility.