Maxwell conceived of a device (later called Maxwell's demon) that could use measurements of individual molecular speeds in a gas to separate faster molecules from slower ones. This device would operate a trap door between two (initially identical) compartments, allowing only faster molecules to pass one way and slower molecules the other way, thus creating a temperature imbalance. Then the temperature difference could be used to run a heat engine, and the result would be the production of mechanical work with no energy input. Of course this would violate the laws of thermodynamics. Discuss reasons why you think Maxwell's demon cannot work.

Maxwell conceived of a device (later called Maxwell's demon) that could use measurements of individual molecular speeds in a gas to separate faster molecules from slower ones. This device would operate a trap door between two (initially identical) compartments, allowing only faster molecules to pass one way and slower molecules the other way, thus creating a temperature imbalance. Then the temperature difference could be used to run a heat engine, and the result would be the production of mechanical work with no energy input. Of course this would violate the laws of thermodynamics. Discuss reasons why you think Maxwell's demon cannot work.

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