Spontaneous Process and Irreversibility

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between spontaneous processes and irreversibility in isolated systems. It is established that every spontaneous process is irreversible, but not all irreversible processes are spontaneous. Irreversible processes result in energy loss due to factors such as friction and viscosity, which do not necessarily indicate spontaneity. The key takeaway is that spontaneity requires specific conditions that may not be met by all irreversible processes.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermodynamic principles, specifically the laws of thermodynamics.
  • Familiarity with concepts of spontaneity and irreversibility in physical processes.
  • Knowledge of energy dissipation mechanisms, including friction and viscosity.
  • Basic grasp of isolated systems in thermodynamics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the laws of thermodynamics to deepen understanding of spontaneity.
  • Explore examples of irreversible processes that are not spontaneous.
  • Study energy dissipation mechanisms in detail, focusing on friction and viscosity.
  • Investigate the conditions required for a process to be classified as spontaneous.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students and professionals in physics, particularly those studying thermodynamics, as well as researchers exploring the principles of energy transfer and system behavior.

Euphemia
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Hi,all
My problem is following this picture!
http://mykomica.org/boards/shieiuping/physics/src/1325318780058.jpg
If the system is isolated, dQ is always zero. Sb-Sa ≥0
And it satisfies the requirement of spontaneousness in isolated systems.
So ,I do wonder if irreversible process is always spontaneous!
Am I Right?
Euphemia
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Science news on Phys.org
Note: Your picture isn't coming across.

You have it backwards. Every spontaneous process is irreversible, but not every irreversible process is spontaneous.
 
A process which is irreversible is the one results in energy loss in the form of heat (dissipation) due to friction ,viscosity etc.As these are involved in processes other than natural ones- eg.,rubbing a stone againast a wall in vertically upward direction- irreversible processes need not be natural or spontaneous ones.
 

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