Question

Describe how parts of the second law of thermodynamics can be used to test the feasibilty of an invention

Answer 1

The second law of thermodynamics plays important role in testing the feasibility of an invention. According to the second law of thermodynamics, we cannot invent an engine which converts all heat energy into work. I e (100%) efficiency is not possible.

Also another statement of second law of thermodynamics put constraints on the inventions by stating that, " it is impossible to construct a device that operates in a cycle and produces no effect other than transfer of heat from a low temperature body to higher temperature body".

The other parameters like entropy and free energy also aids in determining the feasibility of a process. The spontaneous process proceeds with increasing entropy & decrease in free energy.