Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Presentation given in the course of the Masters Programme Environmental Management Module 2.1.1 Ecosystem Analysis

References

Aiko Huckauf
Ecology Centre Kiel

2006-07-05

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Review

Last time: Thermodynamics 101 Some remarks about the history of thermodynamics Classical vs. statistical thermodynamics The fundamental laws of thermodynamics, e. g.
First Law: Conservation of Energy (dU = 0) Second Law: Increase of Entropy (S 0)

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Review

Last time: Thermodynamics 101 Some remarks about the history of thermodynamics Classical vs. statistical thermodynamics The fundamental laws of thermodynamics, e. g.
First Law: Conservation of Energy (dU = 0) Second Law: Increase of Entropy (S 0)

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Review

Last time: Thermodynamics 101 Some remarks about the history of thermodynamics Classical vs. statistical thermodynamics The fundamental laws of thermodynamics, e. g.
First Law: Conservation of Energy (dU = 0) Second Law: Increase of Entropy (S 0)

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Review

Last time: Thermodynamics 101 Some remarks about the history of thermodynamics Classical vs. statistical thermodynamics The fundamental laws of thermodynamics, e. g.
First Law: Conservation of Energy (dU = 0) Second Law: Increase of Entropy (S 0)

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Review

Last time: Thermodynamics 101 Some remarks about the history of thermodynamics Classical vs. statistical thermodynamics The fundamental laws of thermodynamics, e. g.
First Law: Conservation of Energy (dU = 0) Second Law: Increase of Entropy (S 0)

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Introduction

Do ecosystems obey the laws of thermodynamics? Yes, of course - as far as they are applicable. Is thermodynamics a useful tool to explain ecosystem functioning? Well... Do additional concepts make things clearer/easier? Decide yourself.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Introduction

Do ecosystems obey the laws of thermodynamics? Yes, of course - as far as they are applicable. Is thermodynamics a useful tool to explain ecosystem functioning? Well... Do additional concepts make things clearer/easier? Decide yourself.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Introduction

Do ecosystems obey the laws of thermodynamics? Yes, of course - as far as they are applicable. Is thermodynamics a useful tool to explain ecosystem functioning? Well... Do additional concepts make things clearer/easier? Decide yourself.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Introduction

Do ecosystems obey the laws of thermodynamics? Yes, of course - as far as they are applicable. Is thermodynamics a useful tool to explain ecosystem functioning? Well... Do additional concepts make things clearer/easier? Decide yourself.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Introduction

Do ecosystems obey the laws of thermodynamics? Yes, of course - as far as they are applicable. Is thermodynamics a useful tool to explain ecosystem functioning? Well... Do additional concepts make things clearer/easier? Decide yourself.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Introduction

Do ecosystems obey the laws of thermodynamics? Yes, of course - as far as they are applicable. Is thermodynamics a useful tool to explain ecosystem functioning? Well... Do additional concepts make things clearer/easier? Decide yourself.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Introduction

Do ecosystems obey the laws of thermodynamics? Yes, of course - as far as they are applicable. Is thermodynamics a useful tool to explain ecosystem functioning? Well... Do additional concepts make things clearer/easier? Decide yourself.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Conservation of Matter

According to the mass conservation principle, matter can be used, but not used up: Matter can be converted from one form into another, but not consumed. Ecosystems are characterised by constant ows and transformations of matter:
Carbon cycle Nitrogen cycle Phosphorus cycle Water cycle

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Conservation of Matter

According to the mass conservation principle, matter can be used, but not used up: Matter can be converted from one form into another, but not consumed. Ecosystems are characterised by constant ows and transformations of matter:
Carbon cycle Nitrogen cycle Phosphorus cycle Water cycle

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Conservation of Matter

According to the mass conservation principle, matter can be used, but not used up: Matter can be converted from one form into another, but not consumed. Ecosystems are characterised by constant ows and transformations of matter:
Carbon cycle Nitrogen cycle Phosphorus cycle Water cycle

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Conservation of Matter

According to the mass conservation principle, matter can be used, but not used up: Matter can be converted from one form into another, but not consumed. Ecosystems are characterised by constant ows and transformations of matter:
Carbon cycle Nitrogen cycle Phosphorus cycle Water cycle

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Conservation of Energy

According to the First Law of Thermodynamics, dU = 0, energy can be used, but not used up: Energy can neither be created nor destroyed. Energy can be converted from one form into another, but not consumed. Ecosystems are characterised by constant ows and transformations of energy.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Conservation of Energy

According to the First Law of Thermodynamics, dU = 0, energy can be used, but not used up: Energy can neither be created nor destroyed. Energy can be converted from one form into another, but not consumed. Ecosystems are characterised by constant ows and transformations of energy.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Conservation of Energy

According to the First Law of Thermodynamics, dU = 0, energy can be used, but not used up: Energy can neither be created nor destroyed. Energy can be converted from one form into another, but not consumed. Ecosystems are characterised by constant ows and transformations of energy.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Conservation of Energy

According to the First Law of Thermodynamics, dU = 0, energy can be used, but not used up: Energy can neither be created nor destroyed. Energy can be converted from one form into another, but not consumed. Ecosystems are characterised by constant ows and transformations of energy.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Transformation of Energy

Electromagnetic energy (light) can be transformed into chemical energy (sugar) by photosynthesis.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Transformation of Energy

Chemical energy can be transformed into heat.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Transformation of Energy

References

Chemical energy can be transformed into electrical energy.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Summary: Ecosystem Energy

Ecosystems are open to energy and/or matter transfer across their boundaries. Earths ecosystems receive a permanent ow of energy through solar radiation. Without this ow of energy, ecosystems could not developnot even survive. (Therefore,) In ecology, the energy transfer rate dE/dt is commonly used as currency.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Summary: Ecosystem Energy

Ecosystems are open to energy and/or matter transfer across their boundaries. Earths ecosystems receive a permanent ow of energy through solar radiation. Without this ow of energy, ecosystems could not developnot even survive. (Therefore,) In ecology, the energy transfer rate dE/dt is commonly used as currency.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Increase of Entropy

According to the Second Law of Thermodynamics, S 0, all natural (i. e. spontaneous) processes enhance the entropy of the universe. Hence the universe will eventually degenerate towards thermodynamic equilibrium where all gradients are eliminated, all matter is transferred into its most stable chemical state, the entropy has reached its maximum, and the system is dead.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Increase of Entropy

According to the Second Law of Thermodynamics, S 0, all natural (i. e. spontaneous) processes enhance the entropy of the universe. Hence the universe will eventually degenerate towards thermodynamic equilibrium where all gradients are eliminated, all matter is transferred into its most stable chemical state, the entropy has reached its maximum, and the system is dead.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Increase of Entropy

According to the Second Law of Thermodynamics, S 0, all natural (i. e. spontaneous) processes enhance the entropy of the universe. Hence the universe will eventually degenerate towards thermodynamic equilibrium where all gradients are eliminated, all matter is transferred into its most stable chemical state, the entropy has reached its maximum, and the system is dead.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
The Heat Death of the Universe

Some people nd this heat death of the universe thought so disturbing that they want to forbid the Second Law:
I wouldnt want my child growing up in a world headed for total heat death and dissolution into a vacuum. No decent parent would want that.
Kansas state senator Will Blanchard

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
The Heat Death of the Universe

Some people nd this heat death of the universe thought so disturbing that they want to forbid the Second Law:
I wouldnt want my child growing up in a world headed for total heat death and dissolution into a vacuum. No decent parent would want that.
Kansas state senator Will Blanchard

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Introducing Exergy

Others have replaced the problematical concept of entropy by the more conceivable concept of exergy: Exergy is the amount of work a system can perform when brought into thermodynamic equilibrium with its environment.
Exergy indicates a systems distance from thermodynamic equilibrium: The higher the exergy, the farther the distance. Exergy is the available (or: usable) energy of a system and hence a measure of energy quality: The higher the quality of the energy, the smaller the energy loss (e. g. as waste heat) when it is used.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Introducing Exergy

Others have replaced the problematical concept of entropy by the more conceivable concept of exergy: Exergy is the amount of work a system can perform when brought into thermodynamic equilibrium with its environment.
Exergy indicates a systems distance from thermodynamic equilibrium: The higher the exergy, the farther the distance. Exergy is the available (or: usable) energy of a system and hence a measure of energy quality: The higher the quality of the energy, the smaller the energy loss (e. g. as waste heat) when it is used.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Introducing Exergy

Others have replaced the problematical concept of entropy by the more conceivable concept of exergy: Exergy is the amount of work a system can perform when brought into thermodynamic equilibrium with its environment.
Exergy indicates a systems distance from thermodynamic equilibrium: The higher the exergy, the farther the distance. Exergy is the available (or: usable) energy of a system and hence a measure of energy quality: The higher the quality of the energy, the smaller the energy loss (e. g. as waste heat) when it is used.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Introducing Exergy

Others have replaced the problematical concept of entropy by the more conceivable concept of exergy: Exergy is the amount of work a system can perform when brought into thermodynamic equilibrium with its environment.
Exergy indicates a systems distance from thermodynamic equilibrium: The higher the exergy, the farther the distance. Exergy is the available (or: usable) energy of a system and hence a measure of energy quality: The higher the quality of the energy, the smaller the energy loss (e. g. as waste heat) when it is used.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Consumption of Exergy

In contrast to energy, exergy can be consumedand it is consumed during each natural (i. e. irreversible) process: After usage, energy contains a lower amount of exergy than before.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Consumption of Exergy

Ecosystems of different biological qualities consume exergy at different efciencies. The more structure an ecosystem has, the more exergy it can capture and utilisebut the more it also needs for maintenance. Example: Sun radiation reected by different surfaces (cf. following pages).

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Consumption of Exergy

Ecosystems of different biological qualities consume exergy at different efciencies. The more structure an ecosystem has, the more exergy it can capture and utilisebut the more it also needs for maintenance. Example: Sun radiation reected by different surfaces (cf. following pages).

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Consumption of Exergy

Ecosystems of different biological qualities consume exergy at different efciencies. The more structure an ecosystem has, the more exergy it can capture and utilisebut the more it also needs for maintenance. Example: Sun radiation reected by different surfaces (cf. following pages).

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Consumption of Exergy

Ecosystems of different biological qualities consume exergy at different efciencies. The more structure an ecosystem has, the more exergy it can capture and utilisebut the more it also needs for maintenance. Example: Sun radiation reected by different surfaces (cf. following pages).

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Exergy Consumption by a Mirror

References

A perfect mirror reects the sun radiation without any exergy losses.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Exergy Consumption by Asphalt

References

Quantum chemical processes in the asphalt consume exergy (degrade energy quality) so that the reected radiation contains less exergy, i. e., the outgoing radiation is cooler.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Exergy Consumption by Lawn

References

Quantum chemical processes as well as metabolic processes of the grass will occur. Hence, the reected radiation will contain even less exergy and thus be even cooler with the same incoming radiation.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Exergy Consumption by Steppe

References

Invading bushes and shrubs involve more biological activity. Hence, the outgoing radiation during the same circumstances will be cooler.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Exergy Consumption by Forest

References

Further succession brings animals and further plants into the area, which implies a large exergy consumption. The outgoing radiation will thus be rather cool compared to that of the perfect mirror.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Storage of Exergy

The ripening of ecosystems increases their ability to consume incoming solar exergy. This tendency has been formulated as the tentative Fourth Law of Thermodynamics: If a system receives a throughow of exergy, it will utilise this exergy to move away from thermodynamic equilibrium. If there is more than one pathway of movement, that one is likely to be chosen which yields most stored exergy (and creates the longest distance from equilibrium).

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Storage of Exergy

The ripening of ecosystems increases their ability to consume incoming solar exergy. This tendency has been formulated as the tentative Fourth Law of Thermodynamics: If a system receives a throughow of exergy, it will utilise this exergy to move away from thermodynamic equilibrium. If there is more than one pathway of movement, that one is likely to be chosen which yields most stored exergy (and creates the longest distance from equilibrium).

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Exergy vs. Entropy

Exergy and entropy are closely related: The exergy in the universe is constantly decreasing, the entropy increasing. Exergy is not negative entropy, but another description of the system. The exergy concept is useful to describe ecosystems and other systems far from equilibrium (for which entropy is not dened).

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Exergy vs. Entropy

Exergy and entropy are closely related: The exergy in the universe is constantly decreasing, the entropy increasing. Exergy is not negative entropy, but another description of the system. The exergy concept is useful to describe ecosystems and other systems far from equilibrium (for which entropy is not dened).

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Exergy vs. Entropy

Exergy and entropy are closely related: The exergy in the universe is constantly decreasing, the entropy increasing. Exergy is not negative entropy, but another description of the system. The exergy concept is useful to describe ecosystems and other systems far from equilibrium (for which entropy is not dened).

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Exergy vs. Entropy

Exergy and entropy are closely related: The exergy in the universe is constantly decreasing, the entropy increasing. Exergy is not negative entropy, but another description of the system. The exergy concept is useful to describe ecosystems and other systems far from equilibrium (for which entropy is not dened).

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
An Illustration connecting Energy, Exergy, and Entropy

References

The toothpaste tube (energy) is used by squeezing out the paste (exergy). When all paste (exergy) is used up, the tube (energy) is still there, but its usefulness (quality) has diminished. In the picture, the depression in the tube (entropy) increases as the amount of paste diminishesbut the depression is not a negative paste as one cannot use it to unbrush ones teeth.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Dissipative Structures and Systems

References

When the exergy ow into a system exceeds its exergy consumption, the surplus exergy can be utilised to construct further order, so-called dissipative structure. Such emergent structures move the system further away from thermodynamic equilibrium. Systems that show such coherent self-organisation behaviour are called dissipative systems. They have to export entropy to other hierarchical levels in order to maintain their organised state.

One obvious example for such a spontaneous creation of organisation as a result of energy ow through ecosystems is the emergence of life on Earth.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Dissipative Structures and Systems

References

When the exergy ow into a system exceeds its exergy consumption, the surplus exergy can be utilised to construct further order, so-called dissipative structure. Such emergent structures move the system further away from thermodynamic equilibrium. Systems that show such coherent self-organisation behaviour are called dissipative systems. They have to export entropy to other hierarchical levels in order to maintain their organised state.

One obvious example for such a spontaneous creation of organisation as a result of energy ow through ecosystems is the emergence of life on Earth.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Dissipative Structures and Systems

References

When the exergy ow into a system exceeds its exergy consumption, the surplus exergy can be utilised to construct further order, so-called dissipative structure. Such emergent structures move the system further away from thermodynamic equilibrium. Systems that show such coherent self-organisation behaviour are called dissipative systems. They have to export entropy to other hierarchical levels in order to maintain their organised state.

One obvious example for such a spontaneous creation of organisation as a result of energy ow through ecosystems is the emergence of life on Earth.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Dissipative Structures and Systems

References

When the exergy ow into a system exceeds its exergy consumption, the surplus exergy can be utilised to construct further order, so-called dissipative structure. Such emergent structures move the system further away from thermodynamic equilibrium. Systems that show such coherent self-organisation behaviour are called dissipative systems. They have to export entropy to other hierarchical levels in order to maintain their organised state.

One obvious example for such a spontaneous creation of organisation as a result of energy ow through ecosystems is the emergence of life on Earth.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Dissipative Structures and Systems

References

When the exergy ow into a system exceeds its exergy consumption, the surplus exergy can be utilised to construct further order, so-called dissipative structure. Such emergent structures move the system further away from thermodynamic equilibrium. Systems that show such coherent self-organisation behaviour are called dissipative systems. They have to export entropy to other hierarchical levels in order to maintain their organised state.

One obvious example for such a spontaneous creation of organisation as a result of energy ow through ecosystems is the emergence of life on Earth.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Dissipative Structures and Systems

References

When the exergy ow into a system exceeds its exergy consumption, the surplus exergy can be utilised to construct further order, so-called dissipative structure. Such emergent structures move the system further away from thermodynamic equilibrium. Systems that show such coherent self-organisation behaviour are called dissipative systems. They have to export entropy to other hierarchical levels in order to maintain their organised state.

One obvious example for such a spontaneous creation of organisation as a result of energy ow through ecosystems is the emergence of life on Earth.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Introducing Emergy

Emergy is the amount of energy that is required to make something: The more energy has to be transformed to produce something, the higher the emergy content of the product. Emergy (expressed in emjoules, ej) can be used as basis of a donor system of value, while energy/heat evaluation (expressed in joules, J) or economic valuation (expressed in monetary units) are receiver systems of value. For the Emergy Accounting valuation method, all forms of energy and materials are rst converted into equivalents of one form of energy so that the value of both energy and material resources required to produce something can be measured within a common framework.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Introducing Emergy

Emergy is the amount of energy that is required to make something: The more energy has to be transformed to produce something, the higher the emergy content of the product. Emergy (expressed in emjoules, ej) can be used as basis of a donor system of value, while energy/heat evaluation (expressed in joules, J) or economic valuation (expressed in monetary units) are receiver systems of value. For the Emergy Accounting valuation method, all forms of energy and materials are rst converted into equivalents of one form of energy so that the value of both energy and material resources required to produce something can be measured within a common framework.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Introducing Emergy

Emergy is the amount of energy that is required to make something: The more energy has to be transformed to produce something, the higher the emergy content of the product. Emergy (expressed in emjoules, ej) can be used as basis of a donor system of value, while energy/heat evaluation (expressed in joules, J) or economic valuation (expressed in monetary units) are receiver systems of value. For the Emergy Accounting valuation method, all forms of energy and materials are rst converted into equivalents of one form of energy so that the value of both energy and material resources required to produce something can be measured within a common framework.

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Solar Emergy

References

The usual reference for emergy calculations is solar energy. The solar emergy of a product (expressed in solar emjoules, sej) is the emergy of the product expressed in equivalent solar energy required to generate it. To derive solar emergy of a product, resource, or commodity, all resources that have been used to produce it have to be traced back and expressed in the amount of solar energy that went into their production. Based on such calculations, a transformation coefcient (transformity = emergy/energy, expressed in sej/J) can be derived and used for future calculations to convert energy into emergy.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Solar Emergy

References

The usual reference for emergy calculations is solar energy. The solar emergy of a product (expressed in solar emjoules, sej) is the emergy of the product expressed in equivalent solar energy required to generate it. To derive solar emergy of a product, resource, or commodity, all resources that have been used to produce it have to be traced back and expressed in the amount of solar energy that went into their production. Based on such calculations, a transformation coefcient (transformity = emergy/energy, expressed in sej/J) can be derived and used for future calculations to convert energy into emergy.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Solar Emergy

References

The usual reference for emergy calculations is solar energy. The solar emergy of a product (expressed in solar emjoules, sej) is the emergy of the product expressed in equivalent solar energy required to generate it. To derive solar emergy of a product, resource, or commodity, all resources that have been used to produce it have to be traced back and expressed in the amount of solar energy that went into their production. Based on such calculations, a transformation coefcient (transformity = emergy/energy, expressed in sej/J) can be derived and used for future calculations to convert energy into emergy.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
Solar Emergy

References

The usual reference for emergy calculations is solar energy. The solar emergy of a product (expressed in solar emjoules, sej) is the emergy of the product expressed in equivalent solar energy required to generate it. To derive solar emergy of a product, resource, or commodity, all resources that have been used to produce it have to be traced back and expressed in the amount of solar energy that went into their production. Based on such calculations, a transformation coefcient (transformity = emergy/energy, expressed in sej/J) can be derived and used for future calculations to convert energy into emergy.

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

References
For Further Reading. . .

Sven Erik Jrgensen and Felix Mller (Ed.): Handbook of Ecosystem Theories and Management. CRC Press, Boca Raton, 2000. Sven Erik Jrgensen: Integration of Ecosystem Theories: A Pattern. Kluwer Academic Publishers, Dordrecht, 1992. James J. Kays homepage http://www.jameskay.ca/ provides plentiful information about Thermodynamics and Ecology in general (http://www.jameskay.ca/about/thermo.html) as well as Exergy in particular (http://www.jameskay.ca/about/exergy.html). Folke Gnthe: The Laws of Thermodynamics. Available online at http: //www.holon.se/folke/kurs/Distans/Ekofys/fysbas/LOT/LOT.shtml. David Watson: Energy Concepts for Educators and Students. Available online at http://www.ftexploring.com/energy/energy.html. M. T. Brown and S. Ulgiati: Emergy evaluation of natural capital and biosphere services. AMBIO 28(6), 486493 (1999).

References

Ecosystem Thermodynamics Aiko Huckauf Review Ecosystem Thermodynamics

Introduction Matter Energy Entropy Exergy Illustration Dissipative Structures Emergy

Ecosystem Thermodynamics
The obligatory last slide. . .

Thank you for your attention!

References