Multiple Choice
Which of the following processes represents an increase in entropy (greater disorder) for the system?
19
views
19. Chemical Thermodynamics
Entropy
Multiple Choice
Which state of matter has the highest entropy under typical conditions?
A
Solid
B
Liquid
C
Gas
D
Plasma
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of entropy: Entropy is a measure of the disorder or randomness in a system. The higher the entropy, the greater the disorder.
Recall the typical arrangement of particles in different states of matter: In solids, particles are tightly packed in a fixed, orderly structure; in liquids, particles are close but can move around each other; in gases, particles are far apart and move freely in random directions.
Compare the degrees of freedom and randomness: Solids have the least freedom of movement, liquids have more, and gases have the most freedom and randomness in particle motion.
Conclude that gases have the highest entropy because their particles are most disordered and have the greatest freedom of movement under typical conditions.
Therefore, among solid, liquid, gas, and plasma (under typical conditions), gas has the highest entropy.
Related Videos
Related Practice
