Answer to Question #94496 in Biochemistry for Amy Noel

Question

What is classical thermodynamics and how exactly can it be applied to open systems like in biology?

Answer 1

Classical thermodynamics is the description of the states of thermodynamic systems at near-equilibrium, that uses macroscopic, measurable properties. It is used to model exchanges of energy, work and heat based on the laws of thermodynamics.

 The First Law of Thermodynamics, also known ​as the law of conservation of energy, states that energy can neither be created nor destroyed. It may change from one form to another, but the energy in a closed system remains constant.

Similarly The Second Law of Thermodynamics is concerned primarily with whether or not a given process is possible. The Second Law states that no natural process can occur unless it is accompanied by an increase in the entropy of the universe. For example, Living organisms take in the energy they need to decrease their entropy, by eating food or photosynthesis, etc.