Is there any example of an isolated system in nature? What is the applicability of the second law of thermodynamics?

Authors

  • Oliveira, L. E. Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24084/repqj17.338

Keywords:

Second law of thermodynamics, increase in entropy of isolated system, sand castle, evolving Universe

Abstract

In 1854, Rudolf Clausius developed the second law of thermodynamics, which measures the disorder of a system under investigation. According to that law, all isolated systems always increase in entropy over time. This conclusion was emerged by an empirical experiment of a confined gas that is released inside a vessel. The gas will always expand, thus increasing the entropy of the system. However, the question that remains is that if there is any isolated system in the Universe? This law is bringing several mistaken conclusions such as many examples showed by experts in this area. The purpose of this paper is to show misleading examples shown by the scientific authorities of the second law of thermodynamics. Despite the second law, the Universe has always produced more organized and complex systems over time. Actually, is impractical to show examples of the second law of thermodynamics because there is no isolated system throughout the Universe. The 13.7 billion year history of the Universe's existence shows that it evolves from a hot soup of energy and matter to complex systems like stars, planets, and living things.

Author Biography

  • Oliveira, L. E.

    Department of Conservation and Biodiversity AI, Abepoli Institute Center I Branca, São Paulo. Brasil

Published

2024-01-12

Issue

Section

Articles