Relation between gravity and entropy

In summary, gravity and entropy are related through the laws of thermodynamics. The force of gravity can both increase and decrease entropy depending on the system, and it plays a crucial role in the arrow of time. However, gravity cannot be fully explained by entropy and remains a mystery in physics. The relationship between gravity and entropy has a significant impact on the evolution and structure of the universe, leading to an increase in disorder and complexity over time.
  • #1
Esfand Yar Ali
15
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I have a question regarding the two seemingly different phenomenon of gravity and entropy.I want to ask that exactly how the gravity and over-all entropy of the universe are related?The thing that came to my mind is that could gravity be not a fundamental force of nature at all? Could it be a part of the phenomenon of the ever-increasing entropy of the universe?
 
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There is a body of literature on this topic. You could start with the Wikipedia page.
 
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Likes Fervent Freyja

1. How are gravity and entropy related?

Gravity and entropy are related through the laws of thermodynamics. Entropy is a measure of the disorder or randomness in a system, while gravity is a force that acts between objects with mass. On a larger scale, gravity influences the distribution of matter and energy, which can in turn affect the entropy of a system.

2. Does gravity increase or decrease entropy?

Gravity can both increase and decrease entropy depending on the system. In general, the force of gravity tends to pull objects towards each other, leading to a more ordered and lower entropy state. However, in some systems, such as black holes, the extreme gravitational pull can lead to a state of maximum entropy.

3. How does gravity affect the arrow of time and entropy?

Gravity plays a crucial role in the arrow of time, which is the concept that time only moves in one direction. Without the force of gravity, the universe would be in a state of perfect equilibrium, with no change or movement. Gravity causes matter to clump together, leading to the formation of stars, galaxies, and other structures that contribute to the arrow of time and the increase of entropy.

4. Can gravity be explained by entropy?

No, gravity is a fundamental force that cannot be explained solely by entropy. While there are theories that attempt to explain gravity through the concept of entropy, such as loop quantum gravity, it is still not fully understood and remains one of the biggest mysteries in physics.

5. How does the relationship between gravity and entropy impact the universe?

The relationship between gravity and entropy has a significant impact on the evolution and structure of the universe. The force of gravity allows matter to clump together and form larger structures, such as planets, stars, and galaxies. This, in turn, affects the entropy of the universe, leading to an increase in disorder and complexity over time.

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