Entropy in an irreversible process

In summary, the conversation discusses whether entropy change can be zero in an irreversible process for a closed system, and under what conditions this may occur. It is concluded that for an irreversible process, entropy change is always greater than zero and work is required to return the system to its initial conditions. The concept of entropy generation as a measure of irreversibility is also mentioned.
  • #1
supermesh
7
0
Can entropy change be zero for a closed system in an irreversible process? If yes under what conditions? Thanks!
 
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  • #2
Is it true that entropy change for the irreversible process would be zero for an adiabatic process carried out in constant temperature?
 
  • #3
No!
Adiabatic means no heat transfer. The fact that the process is irreversible means that there is still entropy generated however this is now due to friction or other irreversible effects
 
  • #4
Hi there:

For an irreversible process, entropy change is always greater than zero.

It means that work needs to be provided in order to get the system back to its initial conditions.

By definition, entropy generation/increase/change is a measure of irreveribility ...

Thanks,

Gordan
 

FAQ: Entropy in an irreversible process

What is entropy?

Entropy is a measure of the disorder or randomness in a system. It is a thermodynamic property that describes how energy is distributed within a system.

What is an irreversible process?

An irreversible process is a process that cannot be reversed or undone. This means that once the process is completed, it cannot return to its original state without additional energy or external intervention.

How does entropy change in an irreversible process?

In an irreversible process, entropy always increases. This is because the process involves a transfer of energy, and some of that energy is lost in the form of heat. As a result, the disorder or randomness in the system increases, leading to an increase in entropy.

What is the relationship between entropy and the second law of thermodynamics?

The second law of thermodynamics states that the total entropy of a closed system can never decrease over time. This means that in an irreversible process, the total entropy of the system will always increase, in accordance with the second law.

How is entropy related to the concept of energy efficiency?

Entropy and energy efficiency are inversely related. This means that as entropy increases, energy efficiency decreases. In an irreversible process, some of the energy is lost as heat, leading to an increase in entropy and a decrease in energy efficiency.

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