Non-equilibrium statistical mechanics: a solvable model

Abstract

A two-temperature linear spin model is presented that allows an easily understandable introduction to non-equilibrium statistical physics. The model is one that includes the concepts that are typical of more realistic non-equilibrium models but that allows straightforward steady state solutions and, for small systems, development of the full time dependence for configuration probabilities. The model is easily accessible to upper-level undergraduate students, and also provides a good check for computer models of larger systems.