Thermodynamics & Gibbs Paradox
The Mixing of Non-Identical Gases Before
Shows obvious increase in entropy (disorder) After Shows obvious increase in entropy (disorder)
The Mixing of Identical Gases Before
Shows zero increase in entropy as action is reversible After Shows zero increase in entropy as action is reversible
There is a CONTRADICTION!!! Compare the two scenarios of mixing and we realize that…… There is a CONTRADICTION!!!
Gibbs’ Resolution to the Paradox When 2 non-identical gases mix and entropy increases, we imply that the gases can be separated and returned to their original state When 2 identical gases mix, it is impossible to separate the two gases into their original state as there is no recognizable difference between the gases
Thus, these two cases stand on different footings and should not be compared directly with each other. The mixing of gases of different kinds that results in an entropy change was independent of the nature of the gases. Hence it is independent of the degree of similarity between them
The Mixing of Identical Gases (Revisited) Before
After