Chapter 4, Problem 4I.11E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The entropy change for the system and the surrounding is to be accounted for the given process to be spontaneous.

Concept Introduction:

According to thermodynamics’ law, a particularprocess’s spontaneity is decided by estimating its total entropy change by the expression.

    $\Delta S_{\text{total}}=\Delta S_{\text{system}}+\Delta S_{\text{surrounding}}$

For spontaneity, the total entropy change $\left(\Delta S_{\text{total}}\right)$ should necessarily increase for the process.  In case the system’s entropy change is negative then the surrounding’s entropy change has to be high and positive in order to compensate and make total entropy change positive.