Can you explain the 2nd law of thermodynamics using closed isolated systems?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the concept of closed isolated systems in relation to the Second Law of Thermodynamics. Participants agree that the term "isolated open system" is contradictory, as open systems allow for energy and material exchange, which negates isolation. The Second Law pertains to entropy and describes how isolated systems with multiple interacting particle species reach equilibrium, necessitating an understanding of chemical potentials. The conversation emphasizes the importance of correctly defining these terms to grasp thermodynamic principles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Second Law of Thermodynamics
  • Familiarity with the concept of entropy
  • Knowledge of closed isolated systems
  • Basic principles of chemical potentials
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of the Second Law of Thermodynamics in closed systems
  • Explore the concept of entropy in detail
  • Learn about chemical potentials and their role in thermodynamic equilibrium
  • Investigate real-world examples of closed isolated systems
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Students of physics, thermodynamics enthusiasts, and professionals in scientific research who seek a deeper understanding of thermodynamic laws and their applications in closed systems.

nouveau_riche
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can someone give me an example of isolated open systems ,which can allow me to understand 2nd law of thermodynamics?,bcoz i don't think there's anything called open system and that too in isolation
 
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What do you mean by an 'isolated open system'? The only meaning I've seen attached to 'open system' is that energy and material can be exchanged with its surroundings, which obviously means it isn't isolated...
 
I think you're right. To me, "isolated open system" is like saying "hot ice"; it's a contradiction. But what exactly don't you understand about the 2nd Law? If it's about the definition of entropy and what it is, you're definitely not the first to have questions.
 
The term is poorly chosen, but what it's referring to is an isolated system containing more than one species of particles that can interact and turn into one another. It's 'open' in the sense that the Nk's are not constant, and therefore to discuss equilibrium you need to talk about the chemical potentials.
 
Bill_K said:
The term is poorly chosen, but what it's referring to is an isolated system containing more than one species of particles that can interact and turn into one another. It's 'open' in the sense that the Nk's are not constant, and therefore to discuss equilibrium you need to talk about the chemical potentials.

sorry,typing error and thought mixing error,i mean close isolated systems
 

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