Let a binary mixture of components 1 and 2 form each of the phases α and β in Figure 7.4. The interface between the phases is thermally nonconducting, fixed in position, and permeable to both...

Let a binary mixture of components 1 and 2 form each of the phases α and β in Figure 7.4. The interface between the phases is thermally nonconducting, fixed in position, and permeable to both components. The position of the interface is such that each phase has the same volume. Further, we load the same number of molecules of each component into each phase. We start an adiabatic, workfree process by adjusting the temperatures so that Tα > Tβ. (a) If component 1 diffuses from phase β to phase α, is the process driven by an enthalpy difference or by an entropy difference? (b) Is it possible for component 1 to diffuse in one direction across the interface while simultaneously component 2 diffuses in the opposite direction? Explain your answer. (c) When the process ends and equilibrium is established (and assuming no phase changes occur), will the two phases have the same temperature? The same composition?