Causality principle, non-equilibrium thermodynamics and non-linear science of open systems

Abstract

In real life situations, open systems in non-equilibrium are sometimes in steady state and sometimes in non-steady states. Steady state is obtained when forces and counter forces interact. However, when multiple forces are operative involving autocatalysis (positive feedback) and inhibitory step (negative feedback), exotic non-equilibrium phenomena are observed. Extensive theoretical studies based on non-equilibrium thermodynamics and non-linear dynamics and experimental studies related to simple and complex non-equilibrium physico-chemical systems, which have possible application in real systems in nature, has been reported. Present paper intends to: i) Elucidate concepts related to causality principle developed on the basis of experimental and theoretical studies; and ii) To illustrate manner, in which multiple forces interact in phenomena involving multiple processes and multiple cause-effect sequence such as: a) non-equilibrium steady states; b) bifurcation from steady state to bi-stability and oscillatory state; c) temporal and spatio-temporal oscillations; d) chaos; and e) pattern formation and fractal growth in space.