The third law of thermodynamics states:

Question

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The third law of thermodynamics states that the entropy of a perfect crystal at absolute zero (0 K) is zero. This is because at 0 K, the crystal lattice is in its lowest possible energy state, and there is no thermal energy available to cause disorder or increase entropy.

Therefore, choice C is the best answer. Choices A, B, D, and E are incorrect. The first law of thermodynamics states that the total energy in a system and its surroundings is conserved, not that entropy is increasing. The second law of thermodynamics states that the entropy of the universe is constantly increasing, not constant. The absolute entropy of a substance generally increases with increasing temperature, not decrease. Finally, the entropy of the universe is not equal to the sum of the entropy of system and surroundings; rather, it is the sum of the entropy of the system and surroundings plus any entropy generated by irreversible processes.

The Third Law of Thermodynamics States