Is Thermodynamics Just a Theoretical Concept or a Real Law?

Thread starter Naveen h e
Start date Sep 21, 2014
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Law Thermodynamics

In summary, the second law of thermodynamics states that the total entropy of a closed system will always increase or stay the same in any spontaneous process. It is closely related to energy, as energy eventually becomes evenly distributed in a closed system, and cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed. This law applies to everyday processes, such as cooking and cooling down of hot objects, and cannot be violated as it is a fundamental law of nature.

Sep 21, 2014

Naveen h e

S all laws of thermodynamics theoritical ?

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Sep 25, 2014

timthereaper

Yes, thermodynamics has a theoretical component, but at the risk of incurring the wrath of all nonbelievers, it's a real thing. Remember thermodynamics isn't just a good suggestion, it's the law.

1. What is the second law of thermodynamics?

The second law of thermodynamics states that in any spontaneous process, the total entropy of a closed system will always increase or stay the same. This means that the amount of disorder or randomness in a system will always tend to increase over time.

2. How does the second law of thermodynamics relate to energy?

The second law of thermodynamics is closely related to energy because it states that the total energy in a closed system will eventually become evenly distributed, or in other words, reach a state of maximum entropy. This is why energy is often referred to as "the currency of entropy".

3. What is the difference between the first and second law of thermodynamics?

The first law of thermodynamics, also known as the law of conservation of energy, states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another. The second law of thermodynamics, on the other hand, describes the direction of energy flow and the inevitable increase of entropy in a closed system.

4. How does the second law of thermodynamics apply to everyday life?

The second law of thermodynamics applies to many everyday processes, such as cooking, where the energy from a stove is transferred to the food, but some of it is always lost as heat to the surrounding environment. It also explains why a hot cup of coffee will eventually cool down to room temperature, as the energy is evenly distributed throughout the system.

5. Can the second law of thermodynamics be violated?

No, the second law of thermodynamics is a fundamental law of nature and cannot be violated. While some processes may appear to decrease entropy in a localized system, the overall entropy of the closed system will still increase. This law has been tested and proven in countless experiments and is a cornerstone of modern physics.