The Kac Ring Model
The Kac Ring Model
The Kac ring is a simple, explicitly solvable model that illustrates the process of passing from microscopic, time-reversible behavior to macroscopic, thermodynamic behavior [1]. In this model, sites are arranged around a circle, forming a one-dimensional periodic lattice. Each site is occupied by either a black ball or a white ball. A fraction of the bonds joining neighboring sites have a "tunnel." From time to time each ball moves to the clockwise neighboring site, changing its color if the ball crosses a tunnel.
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