Non-equilibrium thermodynamics

Definition

Non-equilibrium thermodynamics is the branch of thermodynamics that deals with systems that are not in thermodynamic equilibrium, where gradients in temperature, pressure, or chemical potential drive the system towards a state of balance. This field studies how these gradients lead to irreversible processes and how energy and matter are exchanged within systems as they evolve over time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Non-equilibrium thermodynamics is essential for understanding real-world processes where systems are constantly changing, such as chemical reactions and heat transfer.
2. This field relies on concepts like fluxes and forces, where the flow of energy or matter (flux) is driven by gradients (forces) in temperature, concentration, or pressure.
3. The principle of minimum entropy production states that systems tend to evolve towards states that minimize entropy production when they are subject to steady-state conditions.
4. Mathematical models such as the linear irreversible thermodynamics provide a framework for analyzing the relationships between forces and fluxes in non-equilibrium systems.
5. Applications of non-equilibrium thermodynamics can be found in various fields including biology, materials science, and engineering, helping to understand complex processes like heat exchangers and biochemical reactions.

Review Questions

• How does non-equilibrium thermodynamics differ from classical thermodynamics in terms of system behavior?
  • Non-equilibrium thermodynamics differs from classical thermodynamics primarily in its focus on systems that are not in a state of balance. While classical thermodynamics deals with systems at equilibrium where macroscopic properties are constant, non-equilibrium thermodynamics examines dynamic processes where gradients drive change. This includes studying how energy and matter flow through systems and understanding irreversible processes that occur as they move toward equilibrium.
• What role does entropy production play in non-equilibrium thermodynamics, and why is it significant?
  • Entropy production is a key concept in non-equilibrium thermodynamics as it quantifies the irreversibility of processes occurring within a system. It reflects how much energy is dispersed or wasted due to inefficiencies in energy conversion and transport phenomena. Understanding entropy production is significant because it helps predict how systems behave under non-equilibrium conditions and provides insights into optimizing processes for energy efficiency in various applications.
• Evaluate the impact of transport phenomena on the study of non-equilibrium thermodynamics and its applications in real-world scenarios.
  • Transport phenomena significantly impact the study of non-equilibrium thermodynamics by providing the foundational principles for analyzing how mass, energy, and momentum move within systems under non-equilibrium conditions. This evaluation allows for a better understanding of complex interactions in fields such as materials science and biophysics. By applying these principles to real-world scenarios, researchers can develop more efficient systems for energy transfer, enhance chemical reaction rates in industrial processes, and improve designs for environmental sustainability.

Related terms

Irreversibility:

The property of a process that cannot be reversed without leaving permanent changes in the system or its surroundings.

Entropy Production: The measure of the increase in entropy within a system due to irreversible processes, often associated with the dissipation of energy.

Transport Phenomena: The study of how mass, energy, and momentum transfer occurs in non-equilibrium conditions, playing a crucial role in understanding various physical processes.