The Kent Papers: Entropy - An Ill-Conceived Mathematical Contrivance?

Entropy - An Ill-Conceived Mathematical Contrivance?

Kent W. Mayhew
68 Pineglen Cres., Ottawa, Ontario K2G 0G8, Canada
(Received 4 May 2015; accepted 25 July 2015; published online 16 August 2015)

Abstract: Entropy remains a part of so many thermodynamics relations, yet its true identity lacks clarity. We shall show that entropy may be nothing more than a mathematical contrivance, one that is illogically used to explain too many phenomena. In so doing, we shall question many traditional thermodynamic conceptualizations, as well as provide a unique understanding as to how Boltzmann's constant relates to a system's ability to do work. VC 2015 Physics Essays Publication. [http://dx.doi.org/10.4006/0836-1398-28.3.352]

Entropy remains a part of so many thermodynamics relations, yet its true identity lacks clarity.

We shall show that entropy may be nothing more than a mathematical contrivance, one that is illogically used to explain too many phenomena.

Could entropy simply be an ill-conceived mathematical contrivance, thus complicating the simple? Seemingly, this is the case. Moreover, thermodynamics can become a simple constructive science [sic] all that is required is a willingness to make it so.

In so doing, we shall question many traditional thermodynamic conceptualizations, as well as provide a unique understanding as to how Boltzmann's constant relates to a system's ability to do work.

Consider that a closed system simply prevents mass transfer with its surroundings.

The implication of Eq. (4) becomes that a mistake on a grandiose scale was made by 19th century greats such as Clausius, Kelvin, Maxwell, and Boltzmann. Followed by all of us who have adhered to their assertions into the 21st century.

[equation derived algebraically from the Ideal Gas Law]

The above equation confounds tradition, so it will be explained in Section III.

Our traditional consideration of entropy is founded upon circular logic. Specifically, Eq. (6) was equated the empirical data for lost work

Thermodynamics circumnavigates the possible [sic] that entropy entertains more than one guise by using various unnecessary complex arguments, thus preventing entropy from achieving a single simple definition. [sic] Ultimately, confusing what should be a simple constructive science.

Certainly Boltzmann's use of the term disorder in describing what happens over time has led to this belief resulting in concepts like systems always moves toward greater entropy

Seemingly forgotten; forces such as gravity tend to put order back into systems. Certainly, the formation of galaxies, planets, stars, and all other cosmological bodies defy entropy's traditional guise.

Lost work occurs as expanding systems displace our atmosphere's weight.8 Hence, Boltzmann's increase in number of microstates is a result of volume change rather than a reason for energy loss, as is wrongly traditionally professed

Accordingly, a new differing thermodynamic theory arises, one that does not rely upon terms such as disorder, yet renders the identical empirical results. The new theory enlightens us to Boltzmann's constant simply relating a gaseous system's ability to do work to its local gravitational field