Understanding Dissipation and Entropy in Newtonian Dampeners"

In summary, the conversation discusses the dissipation and entropy in a Newtonian dampener immersed in a bath at a fixed temperature. The mechanical work input is dissipated into heat, resulting in an increase of entropy for the bath. However, the dampener's entropy remains constant and the overall increase is solely due to the bath's increase in entropy. This is in accordance with the second law of thermodynamics, which does not have a universal conservation law like energy. Entropy can increase due to processes that rearrange energy distribution, even if the total energy remains constant.
  • #1
muzialis
166
1
Hello there,

I have a question on the dissipation and entropy.

Let us consider a Newtonian dampener with viscosity coefficient η, pulled at a fixed rate e', immersed in an infinite bath at temperature T.
The mechanical work input in time dt is then dW = ηe'*e'dt, and is all dissipated into heat.
The bath will see an increase of its entropy of -dW/T.
And the dampener? Some might argue that it will exchange heat with the bath, but its entropy gain cannot be opposite and equal the entropy gain of the bath, as the second law prescribes the entropy for the overall dissipative sistem has to increase.
So how do I compute the total change in entropy? Where is the "additional" entropy coming from, to satisfy the second law?
I am so puzzled, hop somebody can relieve me!

Thanks
 
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  • #2
As long as the dampener's temperature does not increase, it's entropy remains constant. The overall increase of entropy is entirely due to the increase of entropy of the bath.
 
  • #3
Please note there is no universal "conservation of entropy law" as there is with energy.

Entropy can increase because processes rearrange the distribution of energy, although the energy remains constant.
 

1. What is dissipation in the context of Newtonian dampeners?

Dissipation refers to the process of converting mechanical energy into heat energy. In the case of Newtonian dampeners, this occurs when the motion of an object is slowed down by the dampener, resulting in a decrease in kinetic energy and an increase in thermal energy.

2. How does dissipation affect the performance of a Newtonian dampener?

Dissipation can significantly impact the performance of a Newtonian dampener. The more energy that is dissipated, the greater the reduction in the object's motion, resulting in a more effective dampening effect. However, excessive dissipation can also lead to overheating and potential damage to the dampener.

3. What role does entropy play in Newtonian dampeners?

Entropy is a measure of the disorder or randomness in a system. In the case of Newtonian dampeners, it is related to the amount of energy that is converted into heat and lost from the system. The higher the entropy, the greater the amount of energy dissipated and the more effective the dampener will be.

4. Can the dissipation and entropy of a Newtonian dampener be controlled?

Yes, the dissipation and entropy of a Newtonian dampener can be controlled through various means. The design and materials used in the dampener can affect the amount of energy dissipated. Additionally, external factors such as temperature and friction can also impact the dissipation and entropy of the dampener.

5. How does an understanding of dissipation and entropy help in designing an efficient Newtonian dampener?

An understanding of dissipation and entropy is crucial in designing an efficient Newtonian dampener. By controlling the amount of energy dissipated and the resulting increase in entropy, engineers can optimize the dampener's performance and prevent potential damage from excessive heat. This understanding also allows for the selection of materials and designs that will result in the most effective and durable dampener.

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