What Are the Current Unresolved Problems in Thermodynamics?

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Non-equilibrium thermodynamics remains the most significant unresolved issue in the field, with many fundamental aspects still not fully understood. A key challenge is defining the concept of 'temperature' in non-equilibrium states. There is a wealth of literature on this topic, including numerous papers, monographs, and books, many of which are accessible online for free. Researchers are encouraged to explore various resources to find those that resonate with their understanding. The complexity and breadth of non-equilibrium thermodynamics highlight the ongoing need for exploration and study in this area.
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What are some currently unresolved problem in thermodynamics? Thanks
 
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The biggest unsolved problem is Non-equilibrium thermodynamics.
 
Andy Resnick said:
The biggest unsolved problem is Non-equilibrium thermodynamics.
What specifically about it? What are some of the top papers exploring non-equilibrium thermodynamics? Thanks
 
Pretty much *everything* about nonequilibrium thermodynamics is unsolved- one simple problem is to define 'temperature', for example.

As for 'top papers', there is no shortage of papers, monographs, and books- many available online for free. Try a few, decide which 'makes sense' or speaks to you in a simple way, and read it carefully.
 

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