Equilibrium free-energy differences from nonequilibrium measurements: A master-equation approach

Journal Article · Sat Nov 01 00:00:00 EST 1997 · Physical Review. E, Statistical Physics, Plasmas, Fluids, and Related Interdisciplinary Topics

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.56.5018· OSTI ID:544874

Jarzynski, C ^[1]

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1. Theoretical Astrophysics, T-6, MS B288, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico 87545 (United States)

In has recently been shown that the Helmholtz free-energy difference between two equilibrium configurations of a system may be obtained from an ensemble of {ital finite-time} (nonequilibrium) measurements of the work performed in switching an external parameter of the system. Here this result is established, as an identity, within the master equation formalism. Examples are discussed and numerical illustrations provided. {copyright} {ital 1997} {ital The American Physical Society}

• OSTI ID: 544874
• Journal Information: Physical Review. E, Statistical Physics, Plasmas, Fluids, and Related Interdisciplinary Topics, Vol. 56, Issue 5; Other Information: PBD: Nov 1997
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

66 PHYSICS
EQUILIBRIUM
FREE ENERGY
HELMHOLTZ INSTABILITY
STATISTICAL MECHANICS
MAGNETIC FIELDS