Can entropy change be zero for an irreversible process?

In summary, the entropy change is always positive for an irreversible process because it involves energy dissipation and an increase in entropy. This is a violation of the Second Law of Thermodynamics, which states that the total entropy of a closed system will always increase over time. In contrast, for a reversible process, the entropy change can be either positive or negative depending on whether there is energy dissipation or not.
  • #1
supermesh
7
0

Homework Statement


Can entropy change be zero for a closed system in an irreversible process? If yes under what conditions? Thanks!


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
supermesh said:
Can entropy change be zero for a closed system in an irreversible process? If yes under what conditions? Thanks!

What do you think? You need to show some work before you get help.
 

FAQ: Can entropy change be zero for an irreversible process?

Why is the entropy change zero for an irreversible process?

The entropy change is zero for an irreversible process because irreversible processes involve energy dissipation, leading to an increase in entropy. This increase in entropy is always positive, and therefore the change in entropy cannot be zero.

Can the entropy change ever be zero for an irreversible process?

No, the entropy change cannot be zero for an irreversible process. Irreversible processes, by definition, involve energy dissipation and an increase in entropy. Therefore, the entropy change will always be positive and cannot be zero.

How is entropy change related to the irreversibility of a process?

Entropy change is directly related to the irreversibility of a process. Irreversible processes involve energy dissipation and an increase in entropy, while reversible processes do not. Therefore, the greater the increase in entropy, the more irreversible a process is.

What is the significance of the entropy change being zero for an irreversible process?

The significance of the entropy change being zero for an irreversible process is that it is a violation of the Second Law of Thermodynamics. This law states that the total entropy of a closed system will always increase over time in an irreversible process. A zero entropy change would mean that the system is not following this law.

How does the entropy change for an irreversible process differ from that of a reversible process?

The entropy change for an irreversible process is always positive, while the entropy change for a reversible process can be either positive or negative. This is because reversible processes do not involve energy dissipation and can result in a decrease in entropy. However, irreversible processes always lead to an increase in entropy due to energy dissipation.

Back
Top