see also:
- Homeostatic Variables
- homeostasis
- Far-From-Equilibrium Systems
- Dissipative Structures
- Dissipative Processes
dissipative processes are necessarily far-from-equilibrium systems. homeostasis is a kind of equilibrium, but it is only maintainable through constant corrective effort on the part of the system. What is the word for this kind of stable state that behaves like an equilibrium but which in certain context is actually far from equilibrium?
The term you’re looking for that describes a stable state, which behaves like an equilibrium but is maintained through constant corrective efforts in a system that is fundamentally far from equilibrium, is called “dynamic equilibrium” or “steady state”. These concepts highlight the continuous and active management of system properties to maintain a condition that appears stable but is inherently dynamic.
Dynamic Equilibrium
In dynamic equilibrium, a system’s macroscopic properties remain constant because there is a continuous and balanced exchange of matter and energy within the system. This balance is not due to the system reaching a true equilibrium in the classical thermodynamic sense but is rather the result of ongoing processes that counteract each other at equal rates.
- Biological Example: In cellular biology, the maintenance of ion gradients across cell membranes involves continuous active transport processes. These gradients are critical for cell function, and though they may appear to be in equilibrium (i.e., concentrations remain constant over time), they are maintained by continuous energy expenditure.
- Environmental Example: An ecosystem might reach a dynamic equilibrium where species populations remain relatively stable, but this stability depends on continuous processes of birth, death, nutrient cycling, and energy flow.
Steady State
A steady state is similar to dynamic equilibrium but is often used in contexts where the system’s inputs and outputs are constant over time, leading to an apparently unchanging condition. This term is frequently used in engineering, physics, and chemistry to describe systems where, despite continuous flow and dynamic interactions, certain system variables remain unchanged.
- Chemical Example: In a chemical reactor operating at steady state, reactant feed and product formation rates are balanced, so the concentrations of reactants and products remain constant, despite ongoing reactions.
- Economic Example: An economy might be in a steady state if the overall levels of production and consumption are balanced and remain constant over time, even though individual transactions and market dynamics are highly active and variable.
Application to Systems Thinking
Understanding these concepts is crucial for systems thinking, especially in complex adaptive systems like organizations or ecosystems. Recognizing that what might appear as equilibrium is actually a dynamically maintained state can influence how we manage and interact with these systems. It highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and adaptive management strategies to maintain stability and respond to internal and external changes effectively.
These insights can be particularly useful in organizational management and development, where leaders must continuously adapt policies, processes, and strategies to maintain operational effectiveness and strategic alignment, all while navigating a landscape that is inherently far from equilibrium.