What is thermodynamic entropy?

Author: Leandro Alegsa

Q: What is thermodynamic entropy?


A: Thermodynamic entropy is a measure of how organized or disorganized energy is present in a system of atoms or molecules. It is measured in joules of energy per unit kelvin.

Q: What does the third law of thermodynamics state?


A: The third law of thermodynamics states that when total entropy is reached, there is no more energy to spend.

Q: What are the two types of "rooms" mentioned in the text?


A: The two types of "rooms" mentioned in the text are an open system and a closed system. An open system means that energy (like heat) can freely flow in and out, while a closed system means that it is closed off from the outside; no energy can go in or out.

Q: How does new energy affect total entropy?


A: New energy decreases total entropy because it allows for more organization within the system. For example, if we place a heater into a room with cold tea, we can use the heat from it to reheat the cup of tea. This brings new energy into the room which decreases its total entropy.

Q: Can you give an example of an open system?


A: A real life example of an open system is Earth as it gets a lot of energy from the Sun every day which allows plants to grow and water to stay liquid.

Q: How does total entropy being reached affect a cup of hot tea?


A: When total entropy has been reached for a cup hot tea, there will be no more heat that can be spread so it will become cold as all its heat moves to surrounding area.


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