Entropy and the Second Law of Thermodynamics—The Nonequilibrium Perspective
Henning Struchtrup
Abstract
An alternative to the Carnot-Clausius approach for introducing entropy and the second law of thermodynamics is outlined that establishes entropy as a nonequilibrium property from the onset. Five simple observations lead to entropy for nonequilibrium and equilibrium states, and its balance. Thermodynamic temperature is identified, its positivity follows from the stability of the rest state. It is shown that the equations of engineering thermodynamics are valid for the case of local thermodynamic equilibrium, with inhomogeneous states. The main findings are accompanied by examples and additional discussion to firmly imbed classical and engineering thermodynamics into nonequilibrium thermodynamics.
Topics & Concepts
Non-equilibrium thermodynamicsSecond law of thermodynamicsThermodynamicsExtended irreversible thermodynamicsLaws of thermodynamicsEntropy (arrow of time)Entropy in thermodynamics and information theoryCarnot cyclePhysicsStatistical physicsFundamental thermodynamic relationMaximum entropy thermodynamicsThermodynamic equilibriumThermodynamic equationsOn the Equilibrium of Heterogeneous SubstancesFirst law of thermodynamicsJoint quantum entropyQuantum mechanicsQuantumAdvanced Thermodynamics and Statistical MechanicsPhase Equilibria and ThermodynamicsProcess Optimization and Integration