Life's Unwavering Dance with Non-Equilibrium
Thermodynamics Equilibrium is a state of maximum entropy and minimum free energy, at its core. There will be no flow of mass and energy. Perfect balance in the forces, leading to a static and unchanging condition.
Let’s say, a living cell were to reach equilibrium. What would happen?
Cessation of Metabolism: All biochemical reactions would come to a halt. Forward and reverse reaction rates would be equal - No further production of essential biochemical molecules.
Structural Loss: Universal tendency is to be at maximum entropy. Ordered, complex structures of ot just proteins, but everything from organelles to macromolecules, would eventually break down.
Living systems are open systems (constantly exchanging energy and matter with the surroundings). This continuous exchange only let us exist in non-equilibrium steady state.
