Which of the following processes involve(s) a net decrease of entropy?
I. The condensation of steam
II. The freezing of methanol
III. The evaporation of ethanol
IV. The boiling of water

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The condensation of steam (I) and the freezing of methanol (II) both involve a net decrease in entropy as there is a decrease in the number of available microstates. The evaporation of ethanol (III) and the boiling of water (IV) both involve a net increase in entropy as there is an increase in the number of available microstates. Therefore, only choices I and II result in a net decrease in entropy.

Which of the Following Processes Involve(s) a Net Decrease of Entropy