Block of ice melts - entropy of ice?

Now you can use the second equation to find the change in entropy. In summary, the change in entropy of a 2.00 kg block of ice melting at 0.0˚C is 4 J/K. This is calculated by finding the energy from the phase change (667.4 kJ) and plugging it into the equation ΔS = Q/T, which results in a change in entropy of 4 J/K.
  • #1
ally1h
61
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Homework Statement


A 2.00 kg block of ice at 0.0˚C melts. What is the change in entropy of the ice as a result of this process?


Homework Equations


Q = mcΔT
ΔS = Q/T



The Attempt at a Solution


Q = (2.00 kg)(2.1 kJ/kg*K)(273 K)
Q = 1092 J

ΔS = 1092 J / 273 K
ΔS = 4 J/K


Any good?
 
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  • #2


Not good. Why would you calculate Q using an equation with ΔT? The temperature change is zero, not 273 K. I like your second equation, though, which assumes constant temperature.

How about getting the energy from the phase change?
 
  • #3


Then I'm not sure how to do the problem, the first part anyway, because then Q = 0 and if Q = 0 then ΔS = 0 as well...
 
  • #4


How about looking up the energy associated with the phase change?
 
  • #5


Ahhh... so I'm looking at latent heat then?
Q = mass x latent heat of fusion
Q = (2.00 kg)(333.7 kJ/kg)
Q = 667.4 kJBetter? And then plug that into the second equation?
 
  • #6


Better.
 

FAQ: Block of ice melts - entropy of ice?

What is entropy?

Entropy is a measure of the disorder or randomness of a system. In the context of melting ice, it describes the tendency of ice molecules to become less structured and more random as the ice melts.

Why does a block of ice melt?

A block of ice melts when it absorbs heat from its surroundings, causing the ice molecules to gain energy and break apart from their solid structure. This process is known as melting or phase transition.

How does melting ice relate to entropy?

As the ice melts, its molecules become less structured and more random, increasing the entropy of the system. The more disordered the molecules are, the higher the entropy.

Can entropy be reversed when ice melts?

No, the increase in entropy caused by melting ice cannot be reversed. Once the ice has melted, the molecules have become more disordered and it is not possible to return them to their original state without expending energy.

Does the increase in entropy when ice melts violate the laws of thermodynamics?

No, the increase in entropy when ice melts is in accordance with the second law of thermodynamics, which states that the total entropy of a closed system will always increase over time. The melting of ice is a natural and irreversible process that follows this law.

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