Solution to problem no. 3

The gases diffuse into each other; entropy increases. It is never observed that the gases separate spontaneously; for this latter process, entropy would decrease. Entropy of each individual gas increases. Conclusion: entropy of matter increases if more space is given to it.

The system as a whole represents an example of a isolated system; neither heat nor matter cross the system boundaries. On the other hand, the individual compartments are open systems, since they exchange matter with the respective other.


The picture shows the entropy changes (arbitrary units). Entropy of a gas increases on expansion.


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