The Statistical Mechanics of Nonequilibrium Processes

The statistical mechanics of nonequilibrium processes studies systems not in a stable state, where energy or matter is flowing, like a river or a heat engine. Unlike equilibrium, where everything is uniform and stable, nonequilibrium involves dynamic changes and fluctuations. This field helps us understand how macroscopic properties emerge from microscopic interactions, such as how gases expand or how heat flows. It is crucial for explaining real-world phenomena across physics, chemistry, and biology, revealing insights into complex behaviors like temperature changes, chemical reactions, and the behavior of living systems.