What exactly does the proposed 4th law of thermodynamics mean?

AI Thread Summary
Every non-equilibrium state with defined entropy requires a state space metric that aligns with the steepest entropy ascent during irreversible time evolution while adhering to conservation constraints. This concept is distinct from the established laws of thermodynamics, suggesting it is an independent conclusion rather than a direct consequence of the 0th, 1st, 2nd, or 3rd laws. A reference to a relevant study is provided, highlighting extensive background research over the past 40 years. The discussion invites further expert clarification on the implications of this finding. Overall, the topic emphasizes the evolving understanding of thermodynamic principles in non-equilibrium systems.
DeathByKugelBlitz
Gold Member
Messages
28
Reaction score
16
'Every non-equilibrium state of a system or local subsystem for which entropy is well defined must be equipped with a metric in state space with respect to which the irreversible component of its time evolution is in the direction of steepest entropy ascent compatible with the conservation constraints.'

I understand the first 4 laws but this one is new
 
Science news on Phys.org
Do you have a reference for your quote?
 
Reply
  • Like
Likes vanhees71 and DeathByKugelBlitz
Wow, this is fresh stuff with a lot of background research from the last 40 years. It looks like it is not a consequence of the 0th (transitivity of thermodynamic equilibrium and empiric/operational definition of temperature), 1st, 2nd and 3rd laws of thermodynamics, but an independent conclusion. I can't say more right now, I let some expert offer an explanation of its meaning and relevance.
I thank you for bringing it up.
 
Reply
  • Like
Likes vanhees71 and DeathByKugelBlitz

Thread 'Using battery energy to heat a battery…'

Problem: You’re an Uber driver with a Tesla Model 3. Today’s low: 30F, high: 65F. You want to reach a USD$ profit target in the least number of hours, but your choices could have added cost. Do you preheat the battery only when you are headed to the charging station (to increase the charging rate by warming the battery — however the battery might not be “warm enough” when your reach the charger and thus slower charging rates), or do you always “navigate to the charger” the entire day (which...
View full post »

Similar threads

B Does gravity defy the 2nd Law?
Replies
33
Views
3K
I Elementary Ideas About Entropy -- Is this textbook example correct?
Replies
16
Views
2K
I Irreversible adiabatic processes & entropy change (clarification needed)
Replies
22
Views
5K
Definition of Heat and the First Law of Thermodynamics (discrepancy?)
Replies
5
Views
1K
Basic problem in equilibrium thermodynamics
Replies
2
Views
2K
1st law, 2nd law, entropy by Gyftopoulos / Beretta is confusing
Replies
7
Views
2K
The second law of thermodynamics -- What does "from cold to hot" mean?
Replies
8
Views
8K
I A paradox about energy balance and steady state
Replies
2
Views
2K
What is the true meaning of temperature? Is it global or local?
Replies
10
Views
2K
Thermodynamics - does homogeneity follow from additivity?
Replies
1
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top