| |
May 01, 2024
|
|
|
|
|
T3 4151 - Entropy and Human Activity
Examines the application of the concept of entropy to human society as a whole, through the critical reading and discussion of works by advocates of multiple energy sources, using the viewpoints and patterns of inquiry of several disciplines. Energy is conserved, but most physical processes transform available energy into forms less readily available (thereby “increasing entropy”). Several topics in the physical sciences are presented in some detail to provide adequate technical background. World population and per capita consumption are increasing exponentially. Burning fossil fuels creates toxic byproducts and accelerates global warming. Extractive industries (e.g., agriculture and mining) reduce the natural resources available to future generations. Can we expect solar or nuclear power to “save the day?” Should humanity change priorities to minimize increases of entropy? To what extent can physical principles sensibly be generalized so far? These and other questions provide a focus to our inquiry.
Requisites: Sr only
Credit Hours: 3
General Education Code: 3
Repeat/Retake Information: May be retaken two times excluding withdrawals, but only last course taken counts.
Lecture/Lab Hours: 3.0 lecture
Grades: Eligible Grades: A-F,WP,WF,WN,FN,AU,I
Add to Portfolio (opens a new window)
|
|
