Transport theory: Microscopic reversibility and symmetry

Journal Article · Sat Dec 01 04:00:00 EST 1984 · Phys. Fluids; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.864588· OSTI ID:6256306

Molvig, K; Hizanidis, K

The general theory of Fokker-Planck equation symmetries and their relation to derived transport theory symmetries is developed. The property of microscopic reversibility implies a symmetry in the Fokker-Planck equation for processes obeying detailed balance. It is shown that this symmetry is not sufficient to guarantee Onsager reciprocity for the full matrix of transport coefficients. The general transport matrix has broken symmetry. A partial symmetry can be identified. The theory is compared to the different formulation given by Onsager.

• Research Organization: Plasma Fusion Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
• OSTI ID: 6256306
• Journal Information: Phys. Fluids; (United States), Journal Name: Phys. Fluids; (United States) Vol. 27:12; ISSN PFLDA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
700105* -- Fusion Energy-- Plasma Research-- Plasma Kinetics-Theoretical-- (-1987)
DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
DISTRIBUTION FUNCTIONS
EQUATIONS
EQUILIBRIUM
FOKKER-PLANCK EQUATION
FUNCTIONS
MATRICES
ONSAGER RELATIONS
PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
RELAXATION
SYMMETRY
THERMAL EQUILIBRIUM
TRANSPORT THEORY