second vs deuxieme; adjectives before the noun

Question

Is there a difference between "second" and "deuxieme"? Is "second tour" (and "deuxieme parti") just a fixed phrase?

Also, how can we tell when the adjective is supposed to go before the noun, e.g., "indiscutable montée" and "nombreuses similitudes"?

Accepted Answer

Bonjour Gee,
"second tour" is indeed the best expression to translate "second round" for elections. However, people use and would understand "deuxième tour". BUT, "second" is recommended when you consider that something has only two "components" - which is the case for elections. "Deuxième" is used preferably when there are more than two elements. 
See here: second versus deuxième
As for the place of adjectives before the noun, in this case, take a look here: Why is magnifiques placed differently in 2 sentences? 
I hope this is helpful.
Bonne journée !

Answer

Yes, there is a difference between second and deuxième: you use second normally when there are only two options, whereas deuxième is the "second" among any number of options.