Finite thermostats in classical and quantum nonequilibrium

TL;DR

This paper discusses the theoretical possibility of using time-reversible models, including finite thermostats, for describing stationary nonequilibrium systems in classical and quantum physics, challenging traditional empirical approaches.

Contribution

It proposes a formal interpretation supporting the idea that physically equivalent models should be time reversible, with examples from Navier-Stokes equations illustrating this concept.

Findings

Time-reversible models can represent nonequilibrium stationary states.

Finite thermostats can be integrated into classical and quantum models.

The approach challenges the empirical nature of traditional nonequilibrium models.

Abstract

Abstract: Models for studying systems in stationary states but out of equilibrium have often empirical nature and very often break the fundamental time reversal symmetry. Here a formal interpretation will be discussed of the widespread idea that, in any event, the particular friction model choice should not matter physically. The proposal is, quite generally, that for the same physical system a time reversible model should be possible. Examples about the Navier-Stokes equations are given.