Thermal fluctuations can lead to temporary decreases in entropy within a closed system, as outlined by the fluctuation theorem. While the laws of thermodynamics dictate that entropy cannot spontaneously decrease, the probability of microscopic fluctuations allows for small changes in air pressure to occur. These fluctuations, although rare on a macroscopic scale, are significant in understanding the dynamics of particle interactions and the reversibility of processes. The discussion emphasizes that while large entropy decreases are improbable, small fluctuations are commonplace.
PREREQUISITESPhysicists, thermodynamic researchers, and students studying statistical mechanics who are interested in the nuances of entropy and thermal fluctuations.