Question

Comment on the statement “living state is a non-equilibrium steady- state to be able to perform work”.

Answer 1

According to the law of physics, a system in equilibrium can not work. The same logic is true for any biological system. A biological system is always in non-equilibrium and is in a steady state. The state of non-equilibrium ensures that the biological system is always in working mode. Various processes in the living being are attempts towards preventing it from falling into equilibrium. This is done by providing energy inputs through metabolic processes. Synchronisation among various metabolic processes maintains the steady state of the biological system.