Abstract
Abstract The principle of minimum entropy production, well-known in the phenomenological theory of irreversible processes, is given a microscopic basis. It is assumed that the system together with the reservoirs can be described by a Pauli master equation. A reduced master equation for the system and a microscopic expression for its entropy production are derived. For small deviations from equilibrium the entropy production is a positive definite quadratic form. Its minimum characterizes the stationary state. Generalizations and limitations are discussed.
Full Text
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call