A student drops his notes,and his papers scatter.The fact that the papers scatter and do not remain neatly stacked is an illustration of
A)the first law of thermodynamics.
B)the second law of thermodynamics.
C)an increase in entropy.
D)both choices A and B
E)both choices B and C

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The second law of thermodynamics states that entropy (disorder) in a system will always increase unless energy is added to the system. In this situation, the scattering of papers represents an increase in entropy. Therefore, the best choice is E, as it correctly identifies the increase in entropy as a result of the second law of thermodynamics. Choice A is incorrect as it only relates to the conservation of energy, and choice B is incorrect as it alone does not explain the situation.

A Student Drops His Notes,and His Papers Scatter