Mindscape 67 | Kate Jeffery on Entropy, Complexity, and Evolution
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Entropy Basics
Entropy is a measure of disorder or randomness in a system, often illustrated by mixing coffee and cream. explains that entropy increases naturally over time, as there are more ways for a system to be disordered than ordered. This concept is governed by the second law of thermodynamics, which states that entropy tends to increase in isolated systems. notes that while she doesn't use this law directly in her work, it is a fundamental principle that influences various scientific fields 1.
Subjectivity
Entropy can be subjective, especially in biological systems where microstates may not behave uniformly. Sean highlights that while the second law of thermodynamics generally applies, its reliability diminishes with fewer moving parts, such as in cellular biology. Kate expresses her struggle with the apparent subjectivity of entropy, questioning whether different observers might perceive different entropies 2.
The second law only says that entropy increases in closed systems, and the earth and its biosphere are nowhere near a closed system.
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This subjectivity challenges the traditional understanding of entropy as a purely objective measure 3.
Space's Role
Space plays a crucial role in understanding entropy, as it provides the framework for interactions between particles. Kate questions how space influences entropy, noting that more space allows for more configurations, thus increasing potential entropy. Sean agrees, explaining that the expansion of space is integral to the dynamics of entropy, especially in the context of the universe's growth 4.
Expansion of space is somehow tied up with how much entropy is possible.
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This relationship between space and entropy underscores the complexity of cosmological systems 5.
Emerging Complexity
Complex structures emerge as entropy increases, challenging the notion that higher entropy always means more disorder. Sean explains that while low and high entropy states are simple, complexity arises in between these states. This complexity is not only allowed but driven by the increase in entropy, as seen in the development of life on Earth 6.
Our existence as organized low entropy creatures is actually part of the general tendency of things in the universe to increase in entropy overall.
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Kate inquires about the factors shaping this evolution of complexity, highlighting the intricate balance between order and disorder 7.