Q) Reversible and Irreversible processes

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concepts of reversible and irreversible processes as explained in Reif's "Fundamentals of Statistical and Thermal Physics." The key point is that the number of accessible states in equilibrium (Ω) determines whether a process is reversible. In isolated systems, if Ω(initial) is less than Ω(final), the process is irreversible. The participant questions the real-world applicability of reversible processes, suggesting that they may occur with low probability when the initial and final states have minimal differences.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of statistical mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with thermodynamic processes
  • Knowledge of equilibrium states in physics
  • Basic probability theory related to accessible states
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of the second law of thermodynamics
  • Explore the concept of entropy in reversible and irreversible processes
  • Research real-world examples of reversible processes in thermodynamics
  • Examine the role of probability in statistical mechanics
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those studying thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, as well as researchers interested in the theoretical foundations of reversible and irreversible processes.

jaegu
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I am studying Reif's Fundamental of Statistical and Thermal Physics. (p.91)

he explain about Reversible and Irreversible processes by using "The number of accessible states in equilibrium(Ω)".

in his point of view, each accessible states have equal probability.

comparing to weather Ω(initial) and Ω(final) is larger or not decides reversible system or not in isolated system.

Then, might I see Reversible process in real world??

in his point of view, Reversible Process means just low probability. I think I can make probability that final and initial state have little difference. So, I could probably see reversible processes.

Am i right?

How can i accept this theory??
 
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