irreversible system
[/ɪrɪˈvɜːrsəbəl ˈsɪstəm/]
nounpl: irreversible systems
sistema irreversível
1. A thermodynamic or physical system in which processes occur in only one direction and cannot spontaneously return to their initial state without external intervention
A melting ice cube is an irreversible system because the ice will not spontaneously refreeze at room temperature.
Um cubo de gelo derretendo é um sistema irreversível porque o gelo não se recongelará espontaneamente em temperatura ambiente.
2. In thermodynamics, a system where entropy increases and energy is dissipated, making it impossible to restore the system to its original state without doing work on the surroundings
Friction in mechanical systems creates an irreversible system where kinetic energy is converted to heat.
O atrito em sistemas mecânicos cria um sistema irreversível onde a energia cinética é convertida em calor.
3. Any process or situation that cannot be undone or returned to its previous condition
The extinction of a species represents an irreversible system in nature.
A extinção de uma espécie representa um sistema irreversível na natureza.
This is primarily a technical and scientific term used in physics, chemistry, and engineering fields in both Brazil and the United States. It has particular importance in discussions of environmental conservation and sustainability, where 'irreversible systems' are used to describe ecological damage that cannot be undone. The concept is fundamental to understanding the second law of thermodynamics and entropy, concepts taught in universities worldwide.
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