Time-symmetric fluctuations in nonequilibrium systems.
For nonequilibrium steady states, we identify observables whose fluctuations satisfy a general symmetry and for which a new reciprocity relation can be shown. Unlike the situation in recently discussed fluctuation theorems, these observables are time-reversal symmetric. That is essential for exploiting the fluctuation symmetry beyond linear response theory. In addition to time reversal, a crucial role is played by the reversal of the driving fields that further resolves the space-time action. In particular, the time-symmetric part in the space-time action determines the second order effects of the nonequilibrium driving.
Maes
Christian
C
Instituut voor Theoretische Fysica, Celestijnenlaan 200D, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium.
van Wieren
Maarten H
MH