Understanding Entropy and Free Falling Objects in a Vacuum System

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between entropy and free-falling objects in a vacuum system. Participants explore whether entropy changes when an object falls without air resistance, concluding that while ΔS=0 indicates a reversible process, the object cannot return to its original height without external energy input. The conversation highlights that even in a vacuum, the concept of increasing entropy applies, particularly in the context of potential energy conversion during elastic collisions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Second Law of Thermodynamics
  • Familiarity with concepts of entropy (ΔS) and reversible processes
  • Knowledge of vacuum systems and their properties
  • Basic principles of energy conservation and elastic collisions
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Second Law of Thermodynamics and its implications on entropy
  • Study the behavior of objects in vacuum systems and their energy transformations
  • Examine the conditions for reversible processes and the significance of ΔS
  • Explore the mechanics of elastic collisions and their effects on potential energy
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, thermodynamics enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the principles of entropy and energy conservation in vacuum environments.

kimpantip
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Dear sir,

Hi, Everyone. I have a question about entropy. If the object falls without air resistant (vacuum system) , Is entropy changed? If ΔS=0, it means reversible, is it possible that the object can go back to the original height? I know that it is impossible but can we explain that ΔS >0.
Within the condition as following:
*** Focus on within the space (free falling under gravity)

Thank you very much
 
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If the object falls without air resistant (vacuum system) , Is entropy changed? If ΔS=0, it means reversible, is it possible that the object can go back to the original height?
What do you think?

I know that it is impossible
Why? Assuming there are no other mechanisms where energy gets lost (inelastic collisions for example).
 
What do you think?

Why? Assuming there are no other mechanisms where energy gets lost (inelastic collisions for example).


The thing that I wonder is how can entropy increase while the object is falling in spite of no air resistant and no collision on the ground.
 
That's my question: why do you think it would increase?
 
why do you think it would increase?

ifΔs=0 it reversible, object is able to rise! so i think that Δs>0
 
kimpantip said:
ifΔs=0 it reversible, object is able to rise!
Sure it is, and it will do so after a perfect elastic collision (or a frictionless U-shaped ramp).
 

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