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Maxwell-type constructions for multiple nonequilibrium steady states.
1Chemistry Department, University of California, Davis, California 95616.
Summary
Stochastic analysis reveals that molecular fluctuations can nucleate Maxwell constructions in homogeneous systems, but only over very long timescales, suggesting observable hysteresis in nonequilibrium steady states.
Area of Science:
- Non-equilibrium statistical mechanics
- Physical chemistry
Background:
- Understanding non-equilibrium steady states is crucial for various physical and chemical systems.
- Maxwell constructions are typically applied to equilibrium phase transitions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the applicability of Maxwell-type constructions to multiple non-equilibrium steady states in homogeneous systems.
- To determine the role of molecular fluctuations in nucleating these states.
Main Methods:
- Stochastic analysis of homogeneous systems.
- Theoretical investigation of molecular fluctuations and their timescales.
Main Results:
- Homogeneous molecular fluctuations can nucleate Maxwell constructions, but require timescales on the order of Poincaré recurrence time.
- Hysteresis is predicted to be observable in these non-equilibrium systems.
- Homogeneous fluctuations are not relevant for systems with phase separation or spatial structures.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a theoretical framework for understanding non-equilibrium steady states using Maxwell-type constructions.
- The findings highlight the importance of considering long timescales and potential hysteresis in homogeneous non-equilibrium systems.