- #1
Thytanium
- 43
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Good day friends. I want to know and ask you if Newton's laws are incompatible with thermodynamics.
Are Newton's Laws of physics compatible with thermodynamics?
- Context: Undergrad
- Thread starter Thytanium
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the compatibility of Newton's laws of physics with thermodynamics, exploring theoretical implications and potential paradoxes. It includes considerations of classical thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, and the nature of time in physics.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
- Exploratory
Main Points Raised
- Some participants assert that classical thermodynamics is built on Newton's laws, suggesting compatibility.
- Others propose that the time-symmetric nature of Newton's laws contrasts with the irreversible processes described by thermodynamics, raising questions about their compatibility.
- A participant introduces the concept of the arrow of time and its relation to thermodynamics and the equations of motion in classical and quantum physics.
- One participant mentions that thermodynamics can be derived from Newton's laws through statistical mechanics, emphasizing their compatibility despite apparent contradictions.
- There is a suggestion that the original poster (OP) may be referring to the Gibbs paradox, indicating a specific area of confusion regarding irreversibility in thermodynamics.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the compatibility of Newton's laws with thermodynamics, with some asserting compatibility and others highlighting potential contradictions. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of time symmetry and irreversibility.
Contextual Notes
Participants note the dependence on definitions and the statistical nature of thermodynamic predictions, which may contribute to the perceived incompatibility with Newton's laws. The discussion does not resolve the complexities surrounding these concepts.
- #2
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Classical thermodynamics is built on Newton's laws.Thytanium said:
- #3
Haborix
- 382
- 446
What a question, haha! I will suggest another question to you that you can look into. How, given the time-symmetric equations of motion in both classical (Newton's physics) and quantum physics, can the arrow of time (thermodynamics) arise?
- #4
Dale
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They are compatible. Do you have some reason for thinking they are not?Thytanium said:
- #5
Nugatory
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Thermodynamics can be derived from Newton's laws using the methods of statistical mechanics so they are unarguably compatible. Perhaps you are asking about the apparent incompatibility because Newton's laws are time-symmetric (there are no irreversible processes) whereas thermodynamic laws are not?Thytanium said:
The resolution of this apparent paradox lies in the statistical nature of thermodynamic predictions.
- #6
Vanadium 50
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We could go on and guess what the OP is talking about (Gibbs paradox?) but it would be better for him to tell us.
- #7
Thytanium
- 43
- 18
Ok. Thanks friend PeroK and Haborix and Dale and Nugatory and Vanadium 50. You have clarified all my doubts. My doubts were due to the irreversibility of thermodynamic processes as Nugatory said. I am going to research on the Gibbs paradox friend Vanadium 50. I am very grateful to all of you. Thanks for everything. Good day. 
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