Non Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics

In summary, the conversation discusses the availability and applicability of textbooks, lecture notes, and articles about Non Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics. There is a mention of a comment about the limitations of Statistical Mechanics in non-equilibrium situations, which leads to a separate discussion on the possibility of solving systems outside of equilibrium using methods that do not require equilibrium. It is noted that the foundations of statistical mechanics do not assume equilibrium, as the concept of equilibrium itself requires consideration of general non-equilibrium states.
  • #1
Studiot
5,440
9
A simple websearch reveals many textbooks, lecture notes and articles about Non Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics.

Comments please?
 
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  • #2
Yep, you're right.
 
  • #3
Thank you marcus!
 
  • #4
Did you have a question?
 
  • #5
It was claimed in another thread that Statistical Mechanics can only be applied to equilibrium situations.

Since that comment was a side issue to the thread I started this thread to provide a separate opportunity to discuss the claim.
 
  • #6
Most stat-mech techniques assume equilibrium -- so if a system isn't in equilibrium, then those results will most likely be incorrect.

Separately there are many people who try and solve systems outside of equilibrium, since the methods they employ don't require equilibrium they can be applied to non-equilibrium systems.
 
  • #7
Indeed. The foundations of statistical mechanics do not assume equilibrium, otherwise you could not even develop a theory for equilibrium. Simply formulating what equilibrium is supposed to mean requires one to consider general non-equilibrium states.
 

1. What is Non Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics?

Non Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics is a branch of physics that deals with the study of systems that are not in thermodynamic equilibrium. This includes systems that are in a state of constant change or have imbalances in temperature, pressure, or other properties.

2. How is Non Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics different from Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics?

In Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics, the system is assumed to be in a state of thermodynamic equilibrium, meaning it is at a stable, unchanging state. Non Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics, on the other hand, deals with systems that are constantly changing and not in equilibrium.

3. What are some examples of Non Equilibrium Systems?

Examples of Non Equilibrium Systems include chemical reactions, fluid flow, and heat transfer processes. These are all systems that involve changes in temperature, pressure, and other properties over time.

4. What are the main principles of Non Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics?

The main principles of Non Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics include the concept of entropy, which measures the disorder or randomness of a system, and the Boltzmann equation, which relates the entropy of a system to its microscopic properties.

5. Why is Non Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics important?

Non Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics is important because it allows us to understand and predict the behavior of systems that are not in equilibrium. This is crucial in many areas of science, such as chemistry, biology, and engineering, where systems are often in a state of constant change and flux.

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