Thermodynamics and Complex Systems

Abstract

This chapter describes a generalized thermodynamic construct competent to deal with simple or complex natural field systems, at all levels of organization. The construct applies to cosmic, galactic, stellar, planetary, chemical, biological, and social systems and has the capability to deal not only with the ongoing dynamics of these fields, but also with their slower evolution. To understand motion and change in these field systems, it is necessary to distinguish between fluid processes, which can develop patterns, and condensation processes, which can create more permanent forms. Both processes break symmetry. Although the symmetry-breaking involved in fluid processes is well known, the symmetry-breaking occurring in condensation of matter (self-organization of form) is more obscure. Three properties characterize condensed matter: rigidity, an elastic limit, and flow. Flow processes involved in matter condensation may be either external or internal. Organization of form occurs by an external, in part radial, flow process that brings together atomistic constituents. The constituents develop an elastic limit by giving up an energy of binding. The cooperative binding also enhances the rigidity of the field. The field can be stressed by local processes up to the elastic limit without appreciable change in form. At stresses beyond that limit, the form of the system can be degraded by induced, new flow processes, arising either within the previously bound atomistic constituents or outside.

Complexity of systems may be ascribed to associational (bulk) viscosity, which expresses internalized, fluid mechanical and chemical dissipative processes. The measure of the cooperative binding which leads to condensation of form is given by a flow criticality condition, described by a generalized Reynolds number. The way is pointed out to apply these very general ideas in the study of global geophysical phenomena and of human cultures. —The Editor