Thermodynamics Homework Help: Understanding the Second Law of Thermodynamics

In summary, the operation of a refrigerator involves heat flow out of a reservoir at a lower temperature and into a second reservoir at a higher temperature. This does not violate the Clausius statement of the second law because the compressor in the refrigerator performs work to enable the transfer of heat from the colder reservoir to the hotter one. Without this work being done, the transfer of heat from Tcold to Thot would be prohibited by the Clausius statement.
  • #1
neelakash
511
1

Homework Statement



In the operation of of a refrigerator there is a heat flow out of the reservoir at a lower temperature and a heat flow into a 2nd reservoir at a higher temperature.Explain why this process does not violate the Clausius statement of 2nd law.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



My attempts:Please check and confirm if I am correct

Because WORK is being done by the refrigerator compressor to
accomplish this transfer from Tcold to Thot. The Clausius statement
only prohibits heat flow from Tcold to Thot when NO WORK is being
done to enable the transfer.
 
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  • #2
Yes. The work is provided by the motor in the compressor.
 

FAQ: Thermodynamics Homework Help: Understanding the Second Law of Thermodynamics

What is the Second Law of Thermodynamics?

The Second Law of Thermodynamics states that the total entropy of a closed system will always increase over time. This means that energy will naturally move from a more ordered state to a more disordered state.

How does the Second Law of Thermodynamics relate to heat transfer?

The Second Law of Thermodynamics explains that heat will always flow from a hotter object to a cooler object, never the other way around. This is because heat transfer increases the entropy of the system, in accordance with the law.

What are some real-life examples of the Second Law of Thermodynamics?

Some real-life examples of the Second Law of Thermodynamics include the cooling of a hot cup of coffee, the expansion of a gas in a container, and the melting of ice cubes in a drink. In all of these examples, energy is moving from a more ordered state to a more disordered state.

How is the Second Law of Thermodynamics used in engineering and technology?

The Second Law of Thermodynamics is used in engineering and technology to design and improve efficient systems. It is used to understand and optimize processes such as energy production, refrigeration, and heat engines.

What is the difference between the First and Second Law of Thermodynamics?

The First Law of Thermodynamics states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or converted. The Second Law of Thermodynamics explains the direction of energy transfer and the tendency of systems to increase in entropy over time.

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