Gallo's thermo test
Creationists frequently claim that the 2nd law of thermodynamics makes evolution impossible. They assert that the 2LoT requires there must always be an increase in disorder while evolution (they think) requires a decrease. They make such statements as "Entropy would also dictate that these forms would degredate rather than improve a species." Most usually, creationists have learned a few buzz words and post these like parrots without any comprehension of what they are saying. They are acting as dupes 99 out of 100 times.
Most probably, if you are reading this page, it is because a creationist has posted a one or two line 2LoT argument against evolution and I have asked that he/she demonstrate competence to discuss thermodynamics and you are that creationist or an interested reader. 99 out of 100 times I never hear from the creationist again.
At any rate, I feel that the following exercise will suffice to demonstrate at least a minimum competence in thermodynamics. If the above mentioned creationist is merely a dupe who parrots babble from his/her creationist masters, I'll say my good-byes now.
Please consider the following two statements and then answer a few simple questions:
It is impossible for any system to operate in such a way that the sole result would be an energy transfer by heat from a cooler to a hotter body. | |
It is impossible for any system to operate in a thermodynamic cycle and
deliver a net amount of work to its surroundings while receiving energy by
heat transfer from a single thermal reservoir. |
To simply assert
that this is so in words is nothing more that a substitution of metaphor for
math. It is impossible to express completely and adequately the principles of
thermodynamics in words. It is also impossible to draw any conclusions or to
apply thermodynamics with words. Thermodynamics IS math. The words are only to
explain (incompletely) to those of us who may be lacking in sufficient math
skills.
I thank you in advance for explaining these few elementry concepts about the 2LoT for me. I know that I will better understand your discussion after you have instructed me in these matters.
Awaiting your answer
gallo