The theory of dissipative structures is a theory of non-equilibrium thermodynamics introduced by Belgian physical chemist and 1972 Nobel Lecture TheoMatten in 1958. It describes the formation and structure of astrophysical objects such as stars, planetary systems and galaxies, as well as the structure of non-equilibrium systems like weather systems, turbulent flows and biochemical systems. This theory was developed to study the emergence of large-scale structures from the different processes of chemical, nuclear and gravitational interactions at the molecular, atomic and astronomical scales.
The theory of dissipative structures suggests that the appearance of large-scale structures is due to the self-organization of non-equilibrium chemical processes. This occurs when matter is rearranged in a system under certain external influences, or when certain energy sources such as gravity or electromagnetic radiation interact with matter. The theory states that large-scale structures beginning to form under such influences radiate energy, creating their own dissipative system. The self-organization of these dissipative systems reduces their total energy, creating so-called attractor states, or stable large-scale structures with constant energy.
Another important aspect of the theory is the concept of dissipative instabilities. Dissipative instabilities occur when certain energy inputs (such as gravity, radiation, or chemical reactions) interact with a system in a way that causes the system to lose energy faster than it can be replaced from external sources. This leads to the buildup of dissipative forces, which tend to regulate the rate at which the system undergoes chemical reactions or other reactions. For example, the gravitational interactions between stars in a star cluster cause dissipative instabilities that ultimately lead to the formation of the cluster.
The study of these dissipative structures can be used to provide insights into the evolution of both galaxies and stars. By studying these structures astronomers can better predict the evolution of stars and galaxies. In addition, the theory of dissipative structures can be used to help explain the evolution of biochemical systems, as well as the evolution of spacecraft and even robots.
The theory of dissipative structures was first proposed in 1958 by Theo Matten in his article “Irreversible Processes in Astrophysical Systems”. Since then the theory has grown to become the basis for the study of non-equilibrium thermodynamics and the evolution of large-scale structures. The ideas behind the theory of dissipative structures have also been applied in a wide variety of fields, from chemistry to robotics. Although the full potential of the theory is still being explored, current research is showing promising results in the advancement of our understanding of self-organizing systems.
