Bio question DAT 2009

[Moshi123]

Q. Although entropy continually increases within the universe as a whole, developing organisms gradually become more organized. Which of the following are these organisms capable of doing to aid this process?

a. Lowering activation energy with enzymes
b. violating the second law of thermodynamics
c. using external sources of energy
d. Concentrating their own molecules so that energy flow is reversed
e. creating energy

The answer is C. Can anyone please explain why it is C?
Thanks!

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[NoMorWastedTime]

My idea of this whole process is the second law of thermodynamics applies to closed systems. Since life isn't a closed system, it can break the law by using external sources of energy. Answer choice E is impossible as energy cannot be created or destroyed. Lowering the activation energy will speed the reaction but not change the overall outcome, which is answer choice A.

Agreed, and too add we are NOT violating the second law, as our "reactions" are INCREASING the entropy of the energy sources, however, with the aid of the energy source we become more organized. The heat ect after the use of the energy source leads to a decrease in usable energy and the increase in entropy.

Hopefully that helps.