Metronomes Synchronizing: Entropy & the 2nd Law

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SUMMARY

The phenomenon of 32 metronomes synchronizing on a shared floating base demonstrates the principles of coupled oscillators and the second law of thermodynamics. Despite starting at different times, the metronomes align due to their interactions, gradually shifting closer to synchronization. This behavior does not violate the second law, as it reflects an organized state emerging from random interactions. The system ultimately settles into the lowest energy normal mode, showcasing the natural tendency towards synchronization in coupled systems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of coupled oscillators
  • Familiarity with the second law of thermodynamics
  • Basic knowledge of energy states and normal modes
  • Experience with experimental physics demonstrations
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  • Research the dynamics of coupled oscillators in physics
  • Explore the implications of the second law of thermodynamics in complex systems
  • Investigate energy dissipation in oscillatory systems
  • Watch the YouTube demo of "32 metronomes synchronizing" for practical insight
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Physicists, educators, students of dynamics, and anyone interested in the principles of synchronization and thermodynamics.

jeffinbath
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There is a fascinating demo on YouTube of "32 metronomes synchronizing". They are all started at different times but in barely more than 2 minutes they are all synchronized and working as one unit. If you have not seen this then go to Google and type in "metronomes synchronizing".
Could somebody explain to me why this phenomenon is not disobeying the 2nd Law please.
 
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Hi and welcome to PF! They are synchronizing because they share a floating base which causes those out of phase with the majority to shift closer to phase a little every cycle. The second law of thermodynamics is related to random interactions.
 
jeffinbath said:
There is a fascinating demo on YouTube of "32 metronomes synchronizing". They are all started at different times but in barely more than 2 minutes they are all synchronized and working as one unit. If you have not seen this then go to Google and type in "metronomes synchronizing".
Could somebody explain to me why this phenomenon is not disobeying the 2nd Law please.
Fail to wind them up and see what happens.
 
jeffinbath said:
Could somebody explain to me why this phenomenon is not disobeying the 2nd Law please.

Could you explain why you think it is?

You have 32 coupled oscillators with some losses in the coupling. So there's no surprise that you end up in the lowest energy normal mode.
 

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