Energy consideration in processes of transition to equilibrium state

Abstract

A calculation of the energy loss due to a transi-tion from non-equilibrium to equilibrium state is given. Three different physical systems are con-sidered in this study: connecting an uncharged capacitor to a charged capacitor, emission of a photon from an excited atom, and releasing an object from a compressed spring. In this study, it is shown that a specific fraction of the total energy stored in a non-equilibrium system should be consumed to reach the equilibrium state.