Reversible process/entropy thermodynamics

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SUMMARY

In thermodynamics, during a reversible process, the net entropy change must equal zero, which allows for the individual entropy changes of the system and surroundings to vary as long as their total remains zero. This means that while the entropy of the system may increase or decrease, the entropy change of the surroundings will adjust accordingly to maintain the overall balance. The key takeaway is that in a reversible process, the sum of the entropy changes of both the system and surroundings is strictly zero.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the second law of thermodynamics
  • Familiarity with the concepts of entropy and reversible processes
  • Basic knowledge of thermodynamic systems and surroundings
  • Ability to analyze thermodynamic equations and relationships
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of the second law of thermodynamics in various processes
  • Explore the mathematical formulation of entropy changes in reversible processes
  • Investigate real-world applications of reversible processes in engineering
  • Learn about the differences between reversible and irreversible processes in thermodynamics
USEFUL FOR

Students of thermodynamics, physicists, and engineers interested in understanding the principles of reversible processes and entropy management in systems.

Chronos000
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Homework Statement



For a reversible process, while the net entropy change must be zero, does this mean that the entropy of the system and surroundings can change as long as they amount to zero?
 
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Chronos000 said:

Homework Statement



For a reversible process, while the net entropy change must be zero, does this mean that the entropy of the system and surroundings can change as long as they amount to zero?
Yes. The entropy change of the system or the surroundings can be greater or less than zero in a process. But they cannot sum to less than zero. In a reversible process, they sum to zero.

AM
 

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