In which one of the following situations, the entropy may be maximum?
(1) A class full of students without the teacher being present
(2) A class full of students with teacher being present >
(3) A class full, of students answering an annual examination monitored by video camera x
(4) An empty class room x
Correct Answer:
(1) A class full of students without the teacher being present
Explanation (Understanding Entropy):
Entropy (S) is a measure of disorder or randomness in a system. Higher entropy means greater disorder, while lower entropy indicates a more organized system.
Now, let’s analyze each situation:
- A class full of students without the teacher being present →
- Highest entropy because students are likely to move around, talk, and behave unpredictably.
- The absence of the teacher removes discipline, leading to maximum disorder.
- A class full of students with the teacher being present →
- Lower entropy compared to option 1 because students are more likely to stay quiet and follow instructions.
- The teacher enforces rules, leading to more order.
- A class full of students answering an annual examination monitored by a video camera →
- Very low entropy because students are forced to sit silently and focus on their exam.
- The video camera further ensures discipline and order.
- An empty classroom →
- Very low entropy because there are no students to create disorder.
- Everything remains in a stable and predictable state.
Final Conclusion:
Since entropy is highest when there is maximum randomness and disorder, the correct answer is (1): A class full of students without the teacher being present.