On the Quantum Mechanical and Temporal Origins of Entropy

In this article, we explore the possibility of understanding the increase in the entropy of our universe as a consequence of microscopic uncertainty, as dictated by the uncertainty principle in quantum mechanics. The question of the arrow of time is also addressed: whether the arrow of time is a result of the second law of thermodynamics or the other way round. The most widely accepted view, as of now, is that entropy is responsible for the unidirectional nature of time. However, in this report, we argue that the cosmological arrow of time – which is a result of the expansion of the universe – comes first, and the thermodynamic arrow of time and the second law of thermodynamics follow. And while quantum uncertainty might not be directly responsible for driving the increase in entropy, it certainly leaves room for entropy to increase in our universe.

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Publication Details

Journal
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Published
2025-06-15
DOI
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15669080
Primary Topic
Advanced Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
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article

On the Quantum Mechanical and Temporal Origins of Entropy

Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Advanced Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
article

On the Quantum Mechanical and Temporal Origins of Entropy

article en

Abstract

In this article, we explore the possibility of understanding the increase in the entropy of our universe as a consequence of microscopic uncertainty, as dictated by the uncertainty principle in quantum mechanics. The question of the arrow of time is also addressed: whether the arrow of time is a result of the second law of thermodynamics or the other way round. The most widely accepted view, as of now, is that entropy is responsible for the unidirectional nature of time. However, in this report, we argue that the cosmological arrow of time – which is a result of the expansion of the universe – comes first, and the thermodynamic arrow of time and the second law of thermodynamics follow. And while quantum uncertainty might not be directly responsible for driving the increase in entropy, it certainly leaves room for entropy to increase in our universe.

Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
St. Xavier's College (Autonomous), St Xavier’s College (IN)
Openalex Percentile: Top 57%
Advanced Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
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