Entropy and Time

TL;DR

This paper explains how an arrow of time emerges in statistical mechanics from symmetric fundamental laws by analyzing a simple model, highlighting the role of initial conditions and extending to finite temperatures.

Contribution

It provides a detailed explanation of the emergence of time's arrow from time-reversal-invariant dynamics using a simple model, including finite temperature considerations.

Findings

Time-reversal symmetry is preserved at fundamental levels.

Initial conditions are crucial for the emergence of time's arrow.

The model extends to finite temperatures, showing robustness of the phenomenon.

Abstract

The emergence of a direction of time in statistical mechanics from an underlying time-reversal-invariant dynamics is explained by examining a simple model. The manner in which time-reversal symmetry is preserved and the role of initial conditions are emphasized. An extension of the model to finite temperatures is also discussed.