Imagine that several atoms bond to form a carbohydrate, creating a more orderly system. Which of the following statements is TRUE regarding the universe after this carbohydrate forms?
A)The energy of the universe increases.
B)The energy of the universe decreases.
C)The entropy of the universe increases.
D)The entropy of the universe decreases.
E)Both the energy and entropy of the universe increases.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When atoms bond to form a carbohydrate, the system (carbohydrate) becomes more orderly, which means its entropy decreases. However, according to the second law of thermodynamics, the total entropy of the universe must increase. This is typically achieved through the release of heat or energy into the surroundings during the formation of the carbohydrate, increasing the entropy of the surroundings more than the decrease in entropy of the system, leading to a net increase in the universe's entropy.

Imagine That Several Atoms Bond to Form a Carbohydrate, Creating