Dissipation Mechanism
Overview
Framework for irreversible processes: entropy production, dissipative structures, ergodic theory. Boltzmann (S = k ln W); Prigogine (far-from-equilibrium); Kolmogorov–Sinai (entropy).
Era: 1877–
Proposed at: Vienna / Brussels / Moscow
Formal structure
Domain: State x ∈ X, time t, probability measure μ
dS/dt ≥ 0 (second law); h_μ(T) = Kolmogorov–Sinai entropy
Constraints: μ invariant under dynamics T; ergodic ⟺ h_μ > 0 for nontrivial systems
Objective: Characterize dissipation, predict approach to equilibrium