Which of the following statements is consistent with the second law of thermodynamics?
A) A gain of free energy in a system is always associated with conversion of energy from one form to another.
B) A constant input of energy is required to maintain the high level of cellular organisation.
C) Without an input of energy, the entropy of an organism would tend to decrease over time.
D) Every energy transformation performed by an organism decreases the entropy of the universe.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The second law of thermodynamics states that entropy (the degree of disorder in a system) tends to increase over time, unless energy is added to the system. Option B is consistent with this law because it states that a constant input of energy is necessary to maintain the high level of organisation in cells, which represents a decrease in entropy. The other options do not accurately reflect the second law. Option A is incorrect as free energy can also be lost during conversion. Option C is incorrect as without an input of energy, the entropy would tend to increase in an organism rather than decrease. Option D is incorrect as every energy transformation increases the entropy of the universe.

Which of the Following Statements Is Consistent with the Second