Classical physics is symmetric under time reversal. Entropy is the only arrow that I know of classically.hokhani said:Summary:: Classical systems without time reversal
I am looking for an example of a classical system without time reversal symmetry. I would appreciate any help.
Check out "non-reciprocal optics" or " electromagnetic nonreciprocity".hokhani said:Summary:: Classical systems without time reversal
I am looking for an example of a classical system without time reversal symmetry. I would appreciate any help.
Time reversal breaking in classical systems refers to a phenomenon in which the dynamics of a system are not reversible in time. This means that if the system were to be run backwards in time, the resulting trajectory would not be the same as the original trajectory. This breaking of time symmetry is often observed in systems with dissipative forces or in systems that are driven far from equilibrium.
Time reversal breaking can be measured by comparing the forward and backward trajectories of a system. If the trajectories are not identical, then time reversal symmetry is broken. Another way to measure time reversal breaking is by looking at the entropy production of a system. If the entropy production is non-zero, then time reversal symmetry is broken.
One example is a pendulum that is driven by a periodic force. The motion of the pendulum is not reversible in time because of the dissipative forces acting on it. Another example is a system of particles undergoing Brownian motion, in which the direction of motion is random and not reversible in time.
Time reversal breaking can have significant implications in various fields of science, such as thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and statistical mechanics. It can lead to the emergence of irreversibility and the arrow of time in these systems. Time reversal breaking can also affect the predictability and stability of a system, as well as the efficiency of energy conversion processes.
Yes, time reversal breaking can be observed in macroscopic systems, such as fluids and solids. In fact, it is a common phenomenon in many macroscopic systems, especially those that are far from equilibrium. However, the effects of time reversal breaking may be more subtle and difficult to observe in these systems compared to microscopic systems.