Core Science · EN

Entropy

Entropy is a thermodynamic state function connected to the number and distribution of accessible microscopic states and to energy dispersal.

Why scientists care

Entropy is a thermodynamic state function connected to the number and distribution of accessible microscopic states and to energy dispersal.

The slogan “entropy equals disorder” can be misleading; statistical and thermodynamic definitions are more precise.

A concrete example

Mixing two gases usually increases the number of accessible microscopic arrangements and therefore increases entropy.

Try to notice

Science becomes memorable when a definition is connected to something measurable or observable.

Sources