Maxwell's demon full experiment description

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Thread starter NODARman
Start date Jan 9, 2023
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Demon Experiment Maxwell Maxwell's demon Thermodynamics

In summary, Maxwell's demon experiment is a thought experiment proposed by physicist James Clerk Maxwell in 1867. Its purpose is to challenge the second law of thermodynamics by showcasing a hypothetical being or "demon" that can selectively control the movement of particles in a closed system. The demon works by opening and closing a door between two chambers, seemingly defying the second law. However, there is controversy surrounding the validity of the experiment, with some arguing that it would require energy and others seeing it as purely theoretical. To date, there has been no definitive proof or disproof of the experiment, but it has sparked further research and understanding of the second law of thermodynamics and the role of information in thermodynamics.

Jan 9, 2023

NODARman

Hey! Does anyone have the large/full description of Maxwell's demon thought experiment? I've read it on Wikipedia, but I was wondering if someone knows a better source I can reach legally.
Thanks.

Physics news on Phys.org

Jan 9, 2023

Muu9

https://www.quantamagazine.org/how-maxwells-demon-continues-to-startle-scientists-20210422/
https://www.mdpi.com/1099-4300/19/6/240

1. What is Maxwell's demon experiment?

Maxwell's demon experiment is a thought experiment proposed by physicist James Clerk Maxwell in 1867. It involves a hypothetical being or "demon" that can control a small opening between two chambers of gas, allowing only fast-moving particles to pass through from one chamber to the other.

2. How does Maxwell's demon violate the second law of thermodynamics?

The second law of thermodynamics states that the total entropy of a closed system can never decrease over time. However, in Maxwell's demon experiment, the demon's selective control over particle movement would result in a decrease in entropy, violating this law.

3. What is the purpose of Maxwell's demon experiment?

The purpose of this thought experiment is to challenge the second law of thermodynamics and explore the concept of entropy and its relationship to information and energy.

4. Has Maxwell's demon experiment ever been performed in real life?

No, the full experiment described by Maxwell has not been performed in real life. However, some aspects of the thought experiment have been tested and verified in various physical systems.

5. What are the implications of Maxwell's demon experiment?

If the experiment were to be successfully performed in real life, it would have significant implications for our understanding of the second law of thermodynamics and the role of information in physical systems. It could also potentially lead to advancements in technology for controlling and manipulating particles at a microscopic level.