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Published on: December 4, 2017
Introduction: Self-organization in nonequilibrium chemical systems
Irving R Epstein1, John A Pojman, Oliver Steinbock
1Department of Chemistry, MS 015, Brandeis University, Waltham, Massachusetts 02454-9110, USA.
Chaos (Woodbury, N.Y.)
|October 4, 2006
Summary
Self-organization in nonequilibrium chemical systems explores dynamic phenomena far from equilibrium. This field advanced from the Belousov-Zhabotinsky reaction to chemical waves and Turing patterns, with recent articles reviewing its development.
Area of Science:
- Chemistry
- Chemical kinetics
- Non-equilibrium thermodynamics
Background:
- The study of self-organization in nonequilibrium chemical systems investigates dynamic phenomena in chemically reacting systems significantly distant from equilibrium.
- Systematic research in this domain originated with the temporal dynamics of the Belousov-Zhabotinsky oscillating reaction, first observed in the 1950s.
- The field evolved to encompass chemical waves in excitable media and the study of propagating fronts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of the historical development of self-organization in nonequilibrium chemical systems.
- To present the current state of research in this dynamic scientific field.
- To highlight key milestones such as the design of oscillating reactions and the discovery of Turing patterns.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of seminal discoveries and advancements.
- Analysis of the evolution of theoretical frameworks and experimental techniques.
- Synthesis of findings from recent research articles within the Focus Issue.
Main Results:
- The field has progressed from initial observations of oscillating reactions to complex phenomena like chemical waves and spatial patterns.
- Key developments include the systematic design of oscillating reactions and the discovery of Turing patterns, significantly broadening the field's scope.
- The current state reflects a mature field with diverse applications and ongoing research.
Conclusions:
- Self-organization in nonequilibrium chemical systems is a rich and evolving field with a significant history.
- The systematic study of these systems has led to fundamental insights into pattern formation and complex dynamics.
- The field continues to expand, driven by new discoveries and the exploration of novel chemical systems.
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