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Multiple Choice
Consider the growth of a farmer's crop over a season. Which of the following correctly states a limitation imposed by the first or second law of thermodynamics?
A
The entropy of the universe must decrease to account for the increased entropy associated with plant growth.
B
The process of photosynthesis produces energy that the plant uses to grow.
C
Growth of the crops must occur spontaneously.
D
All of the listed responses are correct.
E
To obey the first law, the crops must represent an open system.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the first law of thermodynamics, which states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed. This implies that the energy used by the crops for growth must come from an external source, such as sunlight.
Recognize that the second law of thermodynamics states that the entropy of a closed system will tend to increase over time. However, living organisms like plants can decrease their internal entropy by increasing the entropy of their surroundings, thus they must be open systems.
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose. This process does not create energy but transforms it, adhering to the first law of thermodynamics.
Consider that plant growth is not a spontaneous process. It requires energy input from the environment, primarily through photosynthesis, which aligns with the second law of thermodynamics.
Conclude that the correct statement regarding the limitation imposed by the laws of thermodynamics is that the crops must represent an open system to obey the first law, as they exchange energy and matter with their surroundings.