(c) During a certain reversible process, the surroundings undergo an entropy change, ΔSsurr = -78 J/K. What is the entropy change of the system for this process?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the given entropy change of the surroundings, which is ΔSsurr = -78 J/K.
2. Understand that for a reversible process, the total entropy change of the universe (system plus surroundings) is zero. This is expressed as ΔSuniv = ΔSsys + ΔSsurr = 0.
3. Rearrange the equation to solve for the entropy change of the system (ΔSsys). This can be done by isolating ΔSsys on one side of the equation: ΔSsys = -ΔSsurr.
4. Substitute the given value of ΔSsurr into the equation: ΔSsys = -(-78 J/K).
5. Simplify the expression to find ΔSsys, which will be the positive value of the given ΔSsurr, indicating the entropy change of the system.

Key Concepts

Entropy

Entropy is a measure of the disorder or randomness in a system. In thermodynamics, it quantifies the amount of energy in a physical system that is not available to do work. Higher entropy indicates greater disorder, while lower entropy suggests more order. Understanding entropy is crucial for analyzing energy transformations and the direction of spontaneous processes.

Reversible Processes

A reversible process is an idealized process that occurs in such a way that the system and surroundings can be returned to their original states without any net change. In thermodynamics, reversible processes are characterized by equilibrium conditions and maximum efficiency. They serve as a benchmark for real processes, which are often irreversible and involve energy losses.

Second Law of Thermodynamics

The Second Law of Thermodynamics states that the total entropy of an isolated system can never decrease over time. It implies that natural processes tend to move towards a state of maximum disorder or entropy. This law is fundamental in determining the direction of spontaneous processes and helps relate the entropy changes of the system and surroundings in reversible processes.