Professor Chih Ted Yang, Visiting Fellow to SARCCM/PEMS "Minimum energy dissipation rate theory and its applications", SARCCM Seminar held at UNSW Canberra, June 22, 2011.

Abstract:
The minimum energy dissipation rate theory can be derived from the entropy concept in thermodynamics using the analogy between a heat system and a river system. The theory can also be derived from direct mathematical arguments. The theory states that when a closed and dissipative system is at its dynamic equilibrium condition, its energy dissipation rate must be a minimum. The minimum value depends on the constraints applied to the system. If the system is not at its equilibrium condition, its energy dissipation rate is not at its minimum value. However, the system will adjust itself to reduce its energy dissipation rate to a minimum value compatible with the constraints and regain equilibrium.

This theory can be used to replace or in conjunction with Newton's laws of motion to solve a wide range of problems in fluid mechanics, hydraulics, hydrodynamics, river engineering, and river morphology. Examples will be used to illustrate the applications of the theory to solving theoretical and engineering problems.