Question

how does the second law of thermodynamics apply to living organisms? it does not apply to living organisms; the complexity of organisms contradicts the second law. the potential energy of atp is converted to kinetic energy, as with muscle contractions. all of the reactions in an organism require an input of energy. as energy transformations occur, free energy increases and unusable energy decreases. living organisms require a constant input of energy to maintain complex structures and order.

Explanation:

The second law of thermodynamics states that in any energy - transformation, the total entropy of a closed system always increases over time. Living organisms are not closed systems; they take in energy (e.g., food) to maintain order and complex structures. All reactions in an organism require energy input, and as energy transformations occur, free energy increases and unusable energy (heat) is given off, which is in line with the second law.

Answer:

All of the reactions in an organism require an input of energy.