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The Use of Chemostats in Microbial Systems Biology
Published on: October 15, 2013
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Thermodynamic control of nonequilibrium systems.
1University of Copenhagen, Niels Bohr Institute, Niels Bohr International Academy, Blegdamsvej 17, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
Physical Review. E
|February 20, 2026
Summary
This study explores the thermodynamic cost of transitioning between nonequilibrium steady states. We found optimal driving protocols exhibit unique properties like diverging parameters and finite entropy production.
Area of Science:
- Thermodynamics
- Statistical Mechanics
- Non-equilibrium Systems
Background:
- Understanding the energetic cost of manipulating systems is crucial.
- Non-equilibrium steady states present unique thermodynamic challenges.
- Dissipation is a key factor in driving processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the thermodynamic cost of driving systems between nonequilibrium steady states.
- To develop a framework for minimizing dissipation during these transitions.
- To analyze the properties of optimal driving protocols.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a linear-response framework for non-equilibrium Markov systems.
- Employing Lagrangian techniques to minimize thermodynamic dissipation.
- Applying the developed framework to a simplified model system.
Main Results:
- Identified optimal protocols for driving systems between states.
- Observed diverging parameters in the optimal protocol.
- Demonstrated finite entropy production in the slow-driving limit.
Conclusions:
- The study provides insights into the thermodynamics of non-equilibrium systems.
- Optimal driving protocols can exhibit non-intuitive behaviors.
- Minimizing dissipation is key to efficient system manipulation.
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