Entropy

Principles Illustrated: Reversibility of Processes

Location: Cabinet D, Shelf 1

"A hypothetical intelligent being is capable of detecting and reacting to the motion of individual molecules. This demonstration is invoked to discuss the effects of violating the second law of thermodynamics." - James Clerk Maxwell (1871)

Most mixing processes would require an infinitely fast demon to 'unmix' the constituents. In this case, a slight density difference between the black and white balls, along with a steady, practiced hand on the flask, can lead to a clear separation of the balls.