Towards a Thermodynamic Theory for Ecological Systems (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780080441672)

The book presents a consistent and complete ecosystem theory based on thermodynamic concepts. The first chapters are devoted to an interpretation of the first and second law of thermodynamics in ecosystem context. Then Prigogine's use of far from equilibrium thermodynamic is used on ecosystems to explain their reactions to perturbations. The introduction of the concept exergy makes it possible to give a more profound and comprehensive explanation of the ecosystem's reactions and growth-patterns. A tentative fourth law of thermodynamic is formulated and applied to facilitate these explanations. The trophic chain, the global energy and radiation balance and pattern and the reactions of ecological networks are all explained by the use of exergy. Finally, it is discussed how the presented theory can be applied more widely to explain ecological observations and rules, to assess ecosystem health and to develop ecological models.

Author: S. E. Jorgensen, Y. M. Svirezhev
ISBN-10: 008044167X
ISBN-13: 9780080441672
Publisher: Pergamon
Language: English
Published: 07/06/2004
Pages: 366
Format: Paperback
Weight: 1.52lbs
Size: 9.28h x 6.50w x 0.61d