What is another word for non-equilibrium thermodynamics?
Pronunciation: [nˈɒnˌiːkwɪlˈɪbɹi͡əm θˌɜːməda͡ɪnˈamɪks] (IPA) 
Non-equilibrium thermodynamics is a branch of thermodynamics that deals with systems far from thermodynamic equilibrium. This field is also known by several other names, including irreversible thermodynamics, non-equilibrium statistical thermodynamics, and nonequilibrium statistical mechanics. The study of non-equilibrium thermodynamics is based on the principle of entropy production, which is a measure of the rate of irreversible processes that occur in a system. The goal of non-equilibrium thermodynamics is to understand the behavior of complex systems that do not reach a state of thermodynamic equilibrium. Additionally, this field is important in the study of biological systems and environmental systems, as well as many areas of engineering and materials science.
