Which of the following is the correct statement of the second law of thermodynamics?
Understand the Problem
The question asks for the correct statement of the second law of thermodynamics. We need to identify which of the given options accurately describes this fundamental law of physics, which governs the direction of thermal processes and the limitations on converting heat into other forms of energy.
Answer
The second law of thermodynamics states that the entropy of an isolated system always increases or remains constant.
The second law of thermodynamics states that the entropy of an isolated system always increases or remains constant. It implies that processes occur in a direction that increases the overall entropy of the universe.
Answer for screen readers
The second law of thermodynamics states that the entropy of an isolated system always increases or remains constant. It implies that processes occur in a direction that increases the overall entropy of the universe.
More Information
The second law of thermodynamics is a fundamental principle of physics that governs the direction of spontaneous processes.
Tips
A common mistake is thinking that the second law implies entropy always increases in all systems. It only applies to isolated systems.
Sources
- 2nd Law of Thermodynamics - chem.libretexts.org
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