Second Law of Thermodynamics Formalism Applied to Finite Duration through Cycles of Living Dissipative Systems

Abstract

A simple and general theory to describe basic irreversible thermodynamic aspects of aging in all dissipative living is presented. Any dissipative system during its operation continuously loses efficiency by the production of structural or functional defects because of the second law of thermodynamics. This continuous loss of efficiency occurs on all the dissipative systems through the realization of specific functional cycles, leading to a maximum action principle of any system involving the Planck’s constant during their total dissipative operation. We applied our theory to the calculation of men and women lifespans from basal metabolic rate per unit weight and to the calculation of a new aging parameter per cycle of some human organs or physiological functions. All microscopic theory of the aging of living beings should be consistent with the second law of the thermodynamics.