Physics 150  Fall 2003     Lect. 7.  The second law of thermodynamics

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Summary

  • Basic understanding in terms of probability
    • An isolated system always evolves to a state of great probability
    • Because ordinary objects are made up of extremely large numbers of atoms, the probabilities are astronomically large (even larger) that nature evolves in the direction required by the second law
  • Practical consequences
    • Heat engines
    • Maximum possible efficiency is that of a reversible engine
  • Next Time: Electric and magnetic forces
  • Read for Next Time: March, Ch. 6