Max Entropy: Second Law of Thermodynamics & Its Effects

In summary: As entropy approaches its maximum, the driving force to reduce entropy becomes increasingly feeble. The universe will eventually reach a point at which all gradients have been eliminated and the temperature and entropy are uniform. In summary, the entropy of the universe will eventually reach a maximum, but it's impossible to say exactly when this will happen.
  • #1
kky
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By the second Law of Thermodynamics, we know the Entropy of the Universe always increases.
But we also know by the formula dS = d'Q/T that when we supply heat and increase the Entropy we also increase temperature. As for a given amount of heat the increase in entropy is smaller at a higher temperature than at a lower temperature, it follows that though Entropy always increases, it becomes harder to increase the Entropy the more we increase it. Extending this argument to the Universe, is it correct to say that the Entropy of the Universe tends off to a maximum?
If so is it possible to calculate this maximum with respect to any reference? And what would the Universe be like when we reach this maximum?
 
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  • #2
Yes... the Universe is going to reach a maximum of entropy, but guess when it will happen it's quite an impossible task. However it is known how the universe will look like at its maximum of entropy: it will be dead!
This death is called "Heat death" and you can refer to this "site"[/URL] for more details
 
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  • #3
I just hate thinking about heat death... It takes away hope...
 
  • #4
kky said:
But we also know by the formula dS = d'Q/T that when we supply heat and increase the Entropy we also increase temperature. ... Extending this argument to the Universe, is it correct to say that the Entropy of the Universe tends off to a maximum?

It's difficult to extend this equation to the universe, since there isn't an external heat source. Instead, we should consider how entropy increases in a closed system. Spontaneous processes tend to smooth out gradients in mass, momentum, charge, temperature, and so on. At the inevitable point of maximum entropy, mass is evenly distributed throughout the cosmos and the temperature is uniform. But you are correct that we can only approach this point asymptotically, since the driving force to eliminate gradients is itself proportional to the magnitude of the unevenness.
 

1. What is the Second Law of Thermodynamics?

The Second Law of Thermodynamics states that in any natural process, the total entropy of a closed system will either remain constant or increase. This law is based on the idea that energy naturally flows from areas of higher concentration to areas of lower concentration, resulting in an increase in disorder or randomness (entropy) in the system.

2. How does the Second Law of Thermodynamics relate to the concept of maximum entropy?

The Second Law of Thermodynamics is often linked to the concept of maximum entropy, which states that a system will naturally tend towards a state of maximum disorder or randomness. This can be thought of as the most likely or most probable state for a system to be in. The Second Law of Thermodynamics explains why this tendency towards maximum entropy occurs.

3. What are some practical applications of the Second Law of Thermodynamics?

The Second Law of Thermodynamics has many practical applications, such as in the design of heat engines, refrigeration systems, and power plants. It also helps to explain the behavior of physical and chemical processes, such as diffusion and chemical reactions. Additionally, the Second Law has implications for the efficiency and sustainability of energy use and resource management.

4. Can the Second Law of Thermodynamics be violated?

No, the Second Law of Thermodynamics is considered a fundamental law of nature and cannot be violated. While there are rare instances where it may appear to be violated on a small scale, overall, the law holds true and has been confirmed by countless experiments and observations.

5. How does the Second Law of Thermodynamics impact the universe and our everyday lives?

The Second Law of Thermodynamics has significant impacts on both the physical universe and our everyday lives. In the universe, it explains the direction of energy flow and the tendency towards disorder and decay. In our daily lives, we experience the effects of the Second Law through the constant use and transformation of energy, as well as the gradual deterioration of objects and systems over time. Understanding this law also allows for the development of more efficient and sustainable technologies and systems.

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