Entropy

I've just tidied my flat. A tiring and arduous task, and one which will prove, ultimately, to be a fruitless endevour.

The reason is one word: Entropy!


Entropy

Entropy is the second law of thermodynamics. And it is a bitch!

It states that all systems will become more disordered over time. In fact: Although my flat is "tidier" by my estimation. The physical exertion that I put into the task: the buzzing of the hoover and the heat of my body will all have served to send particles whizzing around in a much more disorganised way: thus proving the law! My flat may look tidier. But, on a particle level, my exertions have actually caused chaos on a massive scale!

The same principle applies to complex molecules like DNA, with its characteristic double helix structure. This is because, just like in the example above, the energy required to construct the molecule will create disorder in the particles surrounding the reaction.

So, any quest for order amidst this chaos is fruitless. But that shouldn't stop you tidying your kitchen! Becuase entropy will ensure that you will have a mountain to climb the longer you leave it!