07 Apr
The laws of thermodynamics
Why is it that I find the laws of thermodynamics somewhat comforting?
The first law states that energy can only change forms. There is a parallel to the working world in terms of efficiency. The energy required out of a project (q) is basically a constant, you can work extra hard at it (E), but the delta ends up wasted (w).
The second law says that everything moves to a state of order. Everything wants to settle down, so if you’re pushing against it, you’re not going to win. Efforts should be directed with entropy in mind. Furthermore, this law also shows that no system is perfect (there must be a w factor in the first law)
The third law shows that unless we’re at absolute zero, entropy (change) still exists.
Actually, entropy moves toward a state of disorder.
Just like a room in your house: it always gets messier without any effort. It requires work to make it orderly again.
April 12th, 2005 at 9:44 pmHrm. Right you are.
Sigh. Life makes even less sense now
April 12th, 2005 at 10:06 pm