Entropy 2008, 10(1), 15-18; doi:10.3390/entropy-e10010015
Article

Gibbs’ Paradox and the Definition of Entropy

Robert H. Swendsenemail
Physics Department, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
Received: 10 December 2007 / Accepted: 14 March 2008 / Published: 20 March 2008
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gibbs Paradox and Its Resolutions)
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Abstract: Gibbs’ Paradox is shown to arise from an incorrect traditional definition of the entropy that has unfortunately become entrenched in physics textbooks. Among its flaws, the traditional definition predicts a violation of the second law of thermodynamics when applied to colloids. By adopting Boltzmann’s definition of the entropy, the violation of the second law is eliminated, the properties of colloids are correctly predicted, and Gibbs’ Paradox vanishes.
Keywords: Gibbs’ Paradox; entropy; extensivity; Boltzmann.

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MDPI and ACS Style

Swendsen, R.H. Gibbs’ Paradox and the Definition of Entropy. Entropy 2008, 10, 15-18.

AMA Style

Swendsen RH. Gibbs’ Paradox and the Definition of Entropy. Entropy. 2008; 10(1):15-18.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Swendsen, Robert H. 2008. "Gibbs’ Paradox and the Definition of Entropy." Entropy 10, no. 1: 15-18.

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