The Second Law of Thermodynamics Says That the Total Amount

question 48

Multiple Choice

The second law of thermodynamics says that the total amount of entropy, or randomness, in the universe cannot decrease. However, we see all around us objects that become more ordered-for example, the development of a biological organism or water that freezes. The decrease in entropy, or randomness, in such cases does not violate the second law because

• A) energy must be removed.
• B) energy must be added.
• C) there is always a greater increase in entropy somewhere else.
• D) water and living things do not have entropy.

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Definitions:

David Hume

An 18th-century Scottish philosopher known for his skepticism of religion and emphasis on empiricism and the scientific method.

Charles Darwin

A 19th-century naturalist best known for his contributions to the science of evolution and his proposal of natural selection as a mechanism for evolutionary change.

Natural Selection

The process by which biological traits become either more or less common in a population due to the effect on the survival and reproduction of individuals.

Divine Creator

A supreme being believed to be responsible for the creation of the universe and life within it.