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When a system reaches the state of equilibrium, the following property assumes its maximum value
  • a)
    Availability
  • b)
    Entropy
  • c)
    Gibbs function
  • d)
    Helmhotz function
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?
Most Upvoted Answer
When a system reaches the state of equilibrium, the following property...
In thermodynamics, when a system reaches a state of equilibrium, particularly thermal equilibrium, the property that assumes its maximum value is entropy. This concept is derived from the second law of thermodynamics, which states that the total entropy of an isolated system can never decrease over time. It reaches a maximum value when the system achieves equilibrium, meaning no further changes occur in the state of the system without external influences.
  • Availability refers to the maximum useful work that can be extracted from a system as it reaches equilibrium with its surroundings. It is not maximized at equilibrium; rather, it decreases because less work can be extracted as the system approaches equilibrium.
  • Gibbs function (Gibbs free energy) and Helmholtz function (Helmholtz free energy) both describe the amount of reversible work obtainable from a system at constant temperature and pressure (Gibbs) or at constant temperature and volume (Helmholtz). These functions are minimized in the state of equilibrium under their respective conditions (constant T and P for Gibbs, constant T and V for Helmholtz).
Therefore, the correct answer is: B: Entropy
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When a system reaches the state of equilibrium, the following property...
Understanding Equilibrium in Thermodynamics
When a system reaches a state of equilibrium, several thermodynamic properties come into play. Among them, entropy is a significant measure.
What is Entropy?
- Entropy (denoted as S) is a measure of the disorder or randomness in a system.
- In thermodynamic terms, it quantifies the amount of energy in a system that is not available to do work.
Entropy at Equilibrium
- At equilibrium, a system achieves a state where all macroscopic flows of matter and energy have ceased.
- In this state, the entropy of the system reaches its maximum value, indicating that the system is in its most probable configuration.
Why is Entropy Maximum?
- The second law of thermodynamics states that in an isolated system, entropy tends to increase until it reaches a maximum value at equilibrium.
- As systems evolve, they naturally progress toward configurations that maximize disorder, thus maximizing entropy.
Implications of Maximum Entropy
- A maximum in entropy also implies that any spontaneous process will lead to an increase in entropy, reflecting the natural tendency toward disorder.
- This principle is foundational in understanding thermodynamic processes and the direction of energy transformations.
Conclusion
In summary, when a system is in equilibrium, it is characterized by maximum entropy, which reflects the highest level of disorder and the most efficient distribution of energy. This principle is key in thermodynamics and is essential for understanding energy dynamics in mechanical engineering.
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When a system reaches the state of equilibrium, the following property assumes its maximum valuea)Availabilityb)Entropyc)Gibbs functiond)Helmhotz functionCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?
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