Non-equilibrium Thermodynamics and the Production of Entropy : Life, Earth, and Beyond (Understanding Complex Systems)

Book Description
The present volume studies the application of concepts from non-equilibrium thermodynamics to a variety of research topics. Emphasis is on the Maximum Entropy Production (MEP) principle and applications to Geosphere-Biosphere couplings. Written by leading researchers from a wide range of backgrounds, the book presents a first coherent account of an emerging field at the interface of thermodynamics, geophysics and life sciences.


Buy from Amazon     Compare Prices

This book provides a general introduction to non-equilibrium thermodynamics as it applies to life, the Earth system, planetary processes, and Astrobiology. Specifically, the principles of Minimum and Maximum Entropy Production are explained as well as associated concepts of macroscopic reproducibility - the key concept behind thermodynamics - and self-organized criticality. The relevance of these principles in understanding emergent behavior in complex dissipative systems is demonstrated by a range of examples, such as turbulence and heat transport in climate systems, the evolution of landscapes, atmosphere-biosphere interactions, and the Gaia hypothesis.


Buy from Barnes & Noble     Compare Prices