How do the first and second laws of thermodynamics apply to living systems?

Question

Cora Andrews · Accepted Answer

Life can only exist when it destroys other order, including other life. It is physically impossible for everything to "Live in Harmony" - if that means leaving it alone.

Second law: In an isolated system, natural processes are spontaneous when they result in an increase in disorder, or entropy. First law: Energy is conserved and cannot be created or destroyed. https://tutor.hix.ai

Nathan Abbe · Answer

undefined The first law of thermodynamics states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another. In living systems, this law applies as energy is constantly being converted between different forms, such as chemical energy in food being transformed into mechanical energy for movement or electrical energy for nerve impulses.

The second law of thermodynamics states that the total entropy of an isolated system always increases over time. In living systems, this law applies as organisms must continuously expend energy to maintain order and structure, while also generating waste heat and increasing entropy in their surroundings. This is evident in processes such as metabolism, where energy is used to maintain cellular organization and perform work, but also results in the production of waste products and heat.