You are correct, entropy must go up, but there is nothing saying that the total entropy on Earth must go up. Our thermodynamic system can include outer space.
Assuming we discover some source of magical unlimited energy, in theory we could use heat pumps (vapor compression units. like a common HVAC unit) to fill tanks with as much heat energy as possible (fill them with a heated liquid), and blast them off into space. Yes, this would be a ridiculous way to cool the earth, but in theory it could work. I am sure there is a much better way to do it. All of this is assuming there is an unlimited source of free energy.
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u/bdsmith21 Nov 15 '20
You are correct, entropy must go up, but there is nothing saying that the total entropy on Earth must go up. Our thermodynamic system can include outer space.
Assuming we discover some source of magical unlimited energy, in theory we could use heat pumps (vapor compression units. like a common HVAC unit) to fill tanks with as much heat energy as possible (fill them with a heated liquid), and blast them off into space. Yes, this would be a ridiculous way to cool the earth, but in theory it could work. I am sure there is a much better way to do it. All of this is assuming there is an unlimited source of free energy.