Is It Possible to Generate Energy with a Microscopic Gate Sorting Molecules?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion explores the theoretical concept of using a microscopic gate to sort molecules between two tanks, creating a temperature difference that could generate energy. By allowing faster-moving molecules to pass from one tank to another, a temperature gradient could be established, potentially driving a heat engine. The idea aligns with the principles of Maxwell's demon, which suggests that sorting particles could lead to energy generation. However, the feasibility and practical implementation of this concept remain questionable. The conversation highlights the intriguing intersection of thermodynamics and molecular behavior in energy generation.
colin9876
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This baffles me, because the device outlined below could create energy ...

Theres two tanks A & B with a microscopic gate between them

Air in A & B starts at say 25 degrees

whenever a faster than average moving molecule approaches the gate in A a sensor opens the gate and let's in pass into B
If a slow moving molecule approaches the gate from B, the sensor opens the gate and allows it into A

So perhaps after time t, the air in A is at 23 degrees and the air in B is at 27 degrees

In theory the 'sorting gate' could be a very low energy device.
The temp difference between A & B could be used to drive a heat engine and get energy out.

Where is the flaw in this theoretical argument? I can't find one. In theory particle sorting could be done to generate heat differences??
 
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