Final answer:
Systems left to themselves tend to move towards a state of higher disorder, which aligns with the second law of thermodynamics, indicating that entropy increases in an isolated system.
Step-by-step explanation:
Systems that are left alone tend to move toward a state of higher disorder, a concept thoroughly explained by the second law of thermodynamics. This fundamental law of nature suggests that the entropy of an isolated system will not decrease; entropy, which can be understood as a measure of disorder or randomness, increases over time.
For example, biological systems use free energy and molecular building blocks to sustain growth, reproduction, and what is known as dynamic homeostasis. However, outside of these processes that require energy input, natural tendency leads to states of higher entropy. Therefore, in the absence of an energy source or ongoing work, biological and chemical systems will move towards disorder and equilibrium.