NS7 C/P Question #27

[Mr. otcoD]

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Can someone explain how entropy is maximized when the system is at equilibrium?
The explanation says delta G = 0, which means equilibrium plus there is no work being done

How can you translate that into saying "entropy is maximized". The way I think, delta S is extremely positive...

 

[aldol16]

Well, one way to look at it is a system will always tend towards equilibrium. Simultaneously, it will also tend towards highest entropy because that's favorable. If it's not at highest entropy, then that means that there must be a path that leads towards higher entropy and so the system will tend towards that path and is thus not currently at equilibrium.

You shouldn't think about change in entropy because that's not what it's asking for here. For that matter, at equilibrium, dS should be 0 because otherwise, there is a path towards higher entropy.

 

[Mr. otcoD]

Well, one way to look at it is a system will always tend towards equilibrium. Simultaneously, it will also tend towards highest entropy because that's favorable. If it's not at highest entropy, then that means that there must be a path that leads towards higher entropy and so the system will tend towards that path and is thus not currently at equilibrium.

You shouldn't think about change in entropy because that's not what it's asking for here. For that matter, at equilibrium, dS should be 0 because otherwise, there is a path towards higher entropy.

Oh ok i see what you mean. its more about favorability vs. the change. Thanks!