STOCHASTIC-THEORY OF NUCLEATION IN OPEN MOLECULAR-SYSTEMS

In generalization of earlier developments [13, 16] the formation of clusters in open systems which exchange work and/or molecules with the surroundings is investigated. It is shown that in the case of cluster formation under isobaric-isenthalpic conditions the function (S - pV/T) is the relevant thermodynamic potential of this process. Further are considered conditions of continuous supply of monomers and removal of large clusters. The master equation of cluster formation under these conditions is established, and the thermodynamic and molecular processes going on are qualitatively discussed.