nonequilibrium phase transitions

Nonequilibrium phase transitions are changes in the state or behavior of a system that occur when it is not in thermal equilibrium—meaning energy continuously flows through or within it. Unlike traditional phase changes (like water freezing) that happen under steady conditions, these transitions happen in systems kept away from equilibrium, such as traffic flow, lasers, or biological processes. They often involve sudden shifts in patterns, dynamics, or structures as conditions change. Recognizing these transitions helps us understand complex, real-world systems that are constantly evolving and not in a static state.