Contradictory Paradigms – Thermal Equilibrium vs Conservation of Mechanical Energy

Abstract

This study explores the impact of the gravitational field on the distribution of kinetic and potential energies in gaseous systems. It is proposed that in an isolated system under gravitational influence, the initial thermal equilibrium evolves into a state where the deeper regions of the system exhibit higher temperatures than its periphery, challenging classical thermodynamic principles. This phenomenon is analyzed in the context of stellar formation and an idealized gas cloud, concluding with the necessity to reconsider traditional thermodynamic postulates or deepen our understanding of gravity.