How do I state 2nd law of thermodynamics for an open system

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SUMMARY

The second law of thermodynamics does apply to open systems, such as ecosystems, which receive solar energy and materials from external sources. Balance equations can be established for energy and entropy, incorporating transport terms for the movement of organisms and positive entropy production terms. Key literature referenced includes "Towards a Thermodynamic Theory for Ecological Systems," "Thermodynamics of Non-Equilibrium Processes for Chemists," and "Ecosystem Ecology." The discussion clarifies misconceptions regarding the applicability of thermodynamic laws to open systems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermodynamic principles, specifically the second law of thermodynamics.
  • Familiarity with open systems in ecological contexts.
  • Knowledge of balance equations in thermodynamics.
  • Basic physics education, ideally up to high school level.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "balance equations in thermodynamics" for a deeper understanding of energy and entropy in open systems.
  • Explore "thermodynamics of ecosystems" to see practical applications of thermodynamic laws in ecological studies.
  • Study "non-equilibrium thermodynamics" to grasp the complexities of systems not in equilibrium.
  • Read "Ecosystem Ecology" for insights into how energy flows and materials cycle within ecosystems.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, ecologists, environmental scientists, and anyone interested in the application of thermodynamics to ecological systems will benefit from this discussion.

Tyto alba
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Ecosystems are open systems, they receive solar energy and other materials from outside the ecosystem and migration of animals is also witnessed.

I read Physics uptil class XII and have done a bit of research on google books and have come across these three books:

1.Towards a Thermodynamic Theory for Ecological Systems, pg-41

2.Thermodynamics of Non-Equilibrium Processes for Chemists, pg-9

3.Ecosystem Ecology, pg-35

P.S. I couldn't come up with anything statement.
I'm not sure if I posted on the right sub-forum. Let me know if this is suitable to other sub-forums and tell me why do you think so.
 
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There is neither 2nd law nor 1st law for an open system.
 
You can set up bilance equations for energy entropy etc. The one for entropy contains both transport terms (e.g. when an animal enters or leaves your system) which can be positive and negative and entropy production terms which can only be positive, due to the second law.
 
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Demystifier said:
There is neither 2nd law nor 1st law for an open system.
This is not correct.
 
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Demystifier said:
There is neither 2nd law nor 1st law for an open system.

Of course there is- usually written as balance equations.
 
SanjuktaGhosh said:
Ecosystems are open systems, they receive solar energy and other materials from outside the ecosystem and migration of animals is also witnessed.

I read Physics uptil class XII and have done a bit of research on google books and have come across these three books:

1.Towards a Thermodynamic Theory for Ecological Systems, pg-41

2.Thermodynamics of Non-Equilibrium Processes for Chemists, pg-9

3.Ecosystem Ecology, pg-35

P.S. I couldn't come up with anything statement.
I'm not sure if I posted on the right sub-forum. Let me know if this is suitable to other sub-forums and tell me why do you think so.

As DrDu mentioned, there are balance equations that can be written down, a crude version for entropy is here:

http://www.learnthermo.com/T1-tutorial/ch08/lesson-B/pg04.php
 
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Andy Resnick said:
Of course there is- usually written as balance equations.
Thanks for the correction! :woot:
 
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