Time asymmetry in ion diffusion under magnetic field

Abstract

The general equation for the flux of an electrolyte in solution in the presence of an external magnetic field was derived mathematically in accordance with the Onsager formalism of irreversible thermodynamics. The time reversal symmetry was examined theoretically for the equation. Time reversal symmetry breaking was demonstrated for the case under investigation. Indeed, it was demonstrated theoretically that diffusion of an electrolyte is solution under an applied magnetic field has asymmetry in respect with time. The important of the study is to show time asymmetry in a physical process based on mathematical derivation of available equations.