SYSTEM (Near Equilibrium)
Charles François (2004). SYSTEM (Near Equilibrium), International Encyclopedia of Systems and Cybernetics, 2(2): 3382.
| Collection | International Encyclopedia of Systems and Cybernetics |
|---|---|
| Year | 2004 |
| Vol. (num.) | 2(2) |
| ID | ◀ 3382 ▶ |
| Object type | Methodology or model |
- “Any system characterized by an irreversible evolution towards a fixed stationary state, called attractor” (S.H. STROGATZ & I. STEWART, 1990, p.100-1).
- “This type of systems may be described by a quite precise equation, which permits to compute the stationary state towards which they tend. Examples of open dissipative systems near equilibrium (i.e., which have a linear movement equation) are numerous: slow flowing rivers, heat flow through a partition, common chemical reactions, motors, etc…” (Ibid).
They are characterized by an “evolution of entropic type” “attracted” by the most probable state, the one of maximum disorder (or the one of stationary state of the same type…)“ (Ibid).
This type of system can however maintain itself in a regime of dynamic stability during a more or less protracted period, while stabilizing its entropy production to the lowest level compatible with its characteristics.
When the system finally reaches its attractor, it destroys itself as a system and its elements recover their independence.