A very interesting comparison is that between a thermal engine and living systems, say us. Thermal engines operate under a temperature gradient, as a vapor locomotive, whereas we are essentially isothermal systems. Also, the second law of thermodynamics establishes that the entropy of the universe increases in any spontaneous process, eventually leading to equilibrium. Discuss the following aspects in qualitative terms: a. What is the source of useful work in biological systems? b. How do we maintain steady state? c. Are there biological processes that occur reducing entropy? If the answer is yes, how do we reconcile this fact with the second law of thermodynamics?

Question

Biology

Thalia Anderson

21 March, 17:54

A very interesting comparison is that between a thermal engine and living systems, say us. Thermal engines operate under a temperature gradient, as a vapor locomotive, whereas we are essentially isothermal systems. Also, the second law of thermodynamics establishes that the entropy of the universe increases in any spontaneous process, eventually leading to equilibrium. Discuss the following aspects in qualitative terms: a. What is the source of useful work in biological systems? b. How do we maintain steady state? c. Are there biological processes that occur reducing entropy? If the answer is yes, how do we reconcile this fact with the second law of thermodynamics?

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Answers (1)

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Micaela Vaughan · Answer 1

a. For both we need some energy source.

b. because of the homeostasis.

c. no

Explanation:

a. - In engines the energy source could be some fossil fuel, electricity, etc. in living things the energy source is the sun or another living thing.

b. In living things the homeostasis is the process by which the levels of water, energy, nutrients, etc. are stable. The needs of a living thing is regulating by its wastes.

c. Living things have order and need energy for its activities like grow, reproduce, etc. but at the same time they release energy to the universe, so at the end. the living things increase the entropy of the universe.