What Can we Learn about Dissipative Structures by Model Reactions

Abstract

Abstract Some questions will be listed which could be answered by the use of simple reaction models, developed in recent years and showing typical phenomena of nonlinear thermodynamics like chemical instabilities, bifurcations, and nonequilibrium phase transitions. A comparison will be made of different forms of descriptions. These are a deterministic theory and stochastic theories based on the use of Langevin forces or of a master equation. The role of certain general stochastic measures as thermodynamic quantities will be discussed. An outlook on possible extensions to limit cycle models will be given.